What are the definitions of “sponge off”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Accept free food and support without any shame or qualms.
Let's go to New York, we can always SPONGE OFF my brother there.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “sponge off”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb sponge off is to accept free food, support, or other resources from someone without any shame or qualms. It often implies that the person receiving the help is taking advantage of the other person's generosity.
What are the different verb forms of “sponge off”?
| Root Verb | sponge off |
| Third Person Singular Present | sponges off |
| Present Participle | sponging off |
| Simple Past | sponged off |
| Past Participle | sponged off |
Example
He always sponges off his friends when he needs money.
Example
She sponges off her parents for financial support.
Example
He is sponging off his relatives while he looks for a job.
Example
They sponged off their friends during their vacation.
Example
He had sponged off his family for years before finally becoming independent.
What kind of phrasal verb is “sponge off”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“sponge off” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She sponged off her wealthy aunt for years.
Example
He sponged off his friends when he was in need.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“sponge off” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She sponged off her wealthy aunt for years.
Example
He sponged off his friends when he was in need.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “sponge off”?
Good things to know
Does “sponge off” have an informal or formal tone?
Sponge off is an informal phrasal verb, typically used in casual conversations. It is not appropriate for formal settings or professional communication. In more formal contexts, alternatives such as 'rely on' or 'depend on' can be used.
What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “sponge off”?
Synonyms
- freeload
- scrounge
- parasitize
- exploit
- leach
- mooch
- live off
- take advantage
Antonyms
- contribute
- support oneself
- be independent
- give back
- pay one's way
- provide for oneself
