What are the definitions of “tack on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Add something that wasn't planned.
They TACKED ON a new ending to the film when they found that test audiences didn't like the original.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “tack on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb tack on is to add something extra or unplanned to an existing thing, such as a project, a list, or a conversation. It often implies that the addition was not part of the original plan or intention.
What are the different verb forms of “tack on”?
| Root Verb | tack on |
| Third Person Singular Present | tacks on |
| Present Participle | tacking on |
| Simple Past | tacked on |
| Past Participle | tacked on |
Example
She decided to tack on a few extra items to the shopping list.
Example
He tacks on a few more minutes to his workout routine.
Example
They are tacking on additional features to the software.
Example
We tacked on a short vacation after the business trip.
Example
The extra fees were tacked on to the final bill.
What kind of phrasal verb is “tack 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
“tack 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 tacked on a few extra items to the shopping list.
Example
He tacked on a few more minutes to his workout routine.
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
“tack 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 tacked on a few extra items to the shopping list.
Example
He tacked on a few more minutes to his workout routine.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “tack on”?
Add extra fees or expenses to a bill or invoice.
Example
The airline tacked on additional costs for checked luggage.
Good things to know
Does “tack on” have an informal or formal tone?
Tack on is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in everyday conversations. In more formal settings, alternative phrases such as 'add on' or 'attach' may be more appropriate.
