What are the definitions of “weigh on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Make someone consider carefully.
The issues raised WEIGHED ON her mind.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “weigh on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb weigh on is to make someone think carefully about something, often causing worry or stress. It usually refers to a situation or problem that affects a person's thoughts or emotions.
What are the different verb forms of “weigh on”?
| Root Verb | weigh on |
| Third Person Singular Present | weighs on |
| Present Participle | weighing on |
| Simple Past | weighed on |
| Past Participle | weighed on |
Example
The decision to move abroad weighed on him for weeks.
Example
The responsibility of being a parent weighs on her every day.
Example
The upcoming exam is weighing on his mind.
Example
The consequences of his actions weighed on him heavily.
Example
The guilt of what happened has weighed on her for years.
What kind of phrasal verb is “weigh 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.)
Intransitive verb
“weigh on” 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 thought of failing weighed on her.
Example
His mistake weighed on him for a long time.
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
“weigh 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 failing weighed on her.
Example
His mistake weighed on him for a long time.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “weigh on”?
Good things to know
Does “weigh on” have an informal or formal tone?
Weigh 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 writing or discussions.
