What does the phrasal verb “try on” mean?

What are the definitions of “try on”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Put clothes on to see if they fit.

  I TRIED the jacket ON before I bought it.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “try on”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb try on is to put on clothes or shoes to see if they fit or look good. This is often done in a store before purchasing the item.

What are the different verb forms of “try on”?

Root Verb	try on
Third Person Singular Present	tries on
Present Participle	trying on
Simple Past	tried on
Past Participle	tried on

Example

She wants to try on the dress before buying it.

Example

He tries on the shoes to make sure they are comfortable.

Example

She is trying on different outfits for the party.

Example

Yesterday, I tried on several pairs of jeans before finding the perfect fit.

Example

The hat she tried on looked great on her.

What kind of phrasal verb is “try on”?

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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

“try 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 tried on the new dress.

Example

He tried the shoes on before purchasing them.

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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

“try 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 tried on the new dress.

Example

He tried the shoes on before purchasing them.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “try on”?

Try something on for size

To test or evaluate something to see if it is suitable or appropriate.

Example

Before committing to the project, he decided to try it on for size by volunteering for a smaller task.

Try on an idea

To consider or think about an idea or suggestion.

Example

She tried on the idea of moving to a new city, but ultimately decided against it.

Good things to know

Does “try on” have an informal or formal tone?

Try on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal situations. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, especially when discussing shopping or clothing. In more formal settings, it can be used metaphorically to discuss ideas or suggestions.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “try on”?

Synonyms

• test
• sample
• fit
• wear
• model
• check

Antonyms

• remove
• discard
• reject
• disregard
• take off