What are the definitions of “spring on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Surprise someone.
They SPRUNG a birthday party ON me at work.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “spring on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb spring on is to surprise someone with something, usually unexpectedly. It often refers to events, news, or information that is suddenly revealed.
What are the different verb forms of “spring on”?
| Root Verb | spring on |
| Third Person Singular Present | springs on |
| Present Participle | springing on |
| Simple Past | sprang on |
| Past Participle | sprung on |
Example
She sprang on a surprise party for her friend.
Example
He springs on unexpected news to his family.
Example
They are springing on a surprise visit to their grandparents.
Example
Yesterday, she sprang on a surprise test for her students.
Example
The news was sprung on us without any warning.
What kind of phrasal verb is “spring on”?
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 on” 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 a surprise party on her friend.
Example
He sprang the news on us during 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 on” 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 a surprise party on her friend.
Example
He sprang the news on us during dinner.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “spring on”?
Good things to know
Does “spring on” have an informal or formal tone?
Spring on is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations. In more formal settings, alternative phrases such as 'surprise someone with' or 'reveal unexpectedly' may be more appropriate.
