What are the definitions of “spring from”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Appear suddenly and unexpectedly.
He SPRANG FROM the bushes when I walked past.
- 2Be the cause of something.
His anger SPRINGS FROM his feelings of insecurity.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “spring from”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb spring from is to appear suddenly and unexpectedly. It can also mean to be the cause of something.
What are the different verb forms of “spring from”?
| Root Verb | spring from |
| Third Person Singular Present | springs from |
| Present Participle | springing from |
| Simple Past | sprang from |
| Past Participle | sprung from |
Example
The idea sprang from a conversation we had last week.
Example
Her motivation springs from her desire to help others.
Example
The flowers are springing from the ground as spring arrives.
Example
The cat sprang from the tree when it saw the dog.
Example
The idea had sprung from a brainstorming session.
What kind of phrasal verb is “spring from”?
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.)
Intransitive verb
“spring from” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The rabbit sprang from the bushes.
Example
Her enthusiasm springs from her love for the subject.
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 from” 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
The rabbit sprang from the bushes.
Example
Her enthusiasm springs from her love for the subject.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “spring from”?
Good things to know
Does “spring from” have an informal or formal tone?
Spring from is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal writing or speech.
