What are the definitions of “spur on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Encourage someone to continue.
The thought of the bonus SPURRED her ON to complete the work on time.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “spur on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb spur on is to encourage or motivate someone to continue doing something or to work harder. It often implies giving someone a reason or incentive to keep going.
What are the different verb forms of “spur on”?
| Root Verb | spur on |
| Third Person Singular Present | spurs on |
| Present Participle | spurring on |
| Simple Past | spurred on |
| Past Participle | spurred on |
Example
The coach's encouragement spurred the team on to victory.
Example
Her determination spurs her on to achieve her goals.
Example
The cheering crowd was spurring the runners on during the marathon.
Example
The promise of a reward spurred him on to finish the project.
Example
They were spurred on by the desire to make a difference in the world.
What kind of phrasal verb is “spur 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
“spur 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
The thought of the bonus spurred her on to complete the work on time.
Example
His kind words spurred me on to keep trying.
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
“spur 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
The thought of the bonus spurred her on to complete the work on time.
Example
His kind words spurred me on to keep trying.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “spur on”?
Good things to know
Does “spur on” have an informal or formal tone?
Spur on 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 settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
