What are the definitions of “spring for”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Pay for, often generously.
She is going to SPRING FOR all their medical bills.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “spring for”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb spring for is to pay for something, often generously or willingly. It usually implies that the person paying is doing so out of kindness or because they want to treat someone else.
What are the different verb forms of “spring for”?
| Root Verb | spring for |
| Third Person Singular Present | springs for |
| Present Participle | springing for |
| Simple Past | sprang for |
| Past Participle | sprung for |
Example
I decided to spring for the more expensive tickets to surprise my friends.
Example
He always springs for the best gifts for his family.
Example
She is springing for a nice dinner to celebrate her promotion.
Example
Last year, they sprang for a luxurious vacation for their anniversary.
Example
He had sprung for the entire team's dinner after winning the championship.
What kind of phrasal verb is “spring for”?
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
“spring for” 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 sprang for the expensive gift.
Example
He sprung for the entire team's dinner.
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
“spring for” 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 sprang for the expensive gift.
Example
He sprung for the entire team's dinner.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “spring for”?
Good things to know
Does “spring for” have an informal or formal tone?
Spring for is an informal phrasal verb, typically used in casual conversations. It may not be suitable for formal writing or professional settings. In more formal contexts, alternatives such as 'pay for' or 'cover the cost of' can be used.
