What does the phrasal verb “dwell on” mean?

What are the definitions of “dwell on”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Spend a lot of time on something.

  The programme DWELLED ON little other than the scandal.

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb dwell on is to spend a lot of time thinking or talking about something, usually in a negative or unproductive way. It often refers to focusing on a problem, mistake, or negative event.

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

Root Verb	dwell on
Third Person Singular Present	dwells on
Present Participle	dwelling on
Simple Past	dwelled on
Past Participle	dwelled on

Example

I don't want to dwell on the past.

Example

She dwells on her mistakes too much.

Example

He is dwelling on the negative aspects of the situation.

Example

Yesterday, they dwelled on the issue for hours.

Example

The broken relationship was dwelled on for too long.

What kind of phrasal verb is “dwell 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.)

Intransitive verb

“dwell 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

She dwells on her past failures.

Example

He dwells on the negative aspects of the situation.

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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

“dwell 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 dwells on her past failures.

Example

He dwells on the negative aspects of the situation.

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

Dwell on the past

To spend too much time thinking about past events, often with regret or sadness.

Example

It's not healthy to dwell on the past; we should focus on the present and future.

Dwell on a problem

To spend a lot of time thinking about a problem or issue, often without finding a solution.

Example

Instead of dwelling on the problem, let's try to find a solution.

Dwell on a mistake

To spend too much time thinking about a mistake or error, often leading to feelings of guilt or regret.

Example

We all make mistakes; it's important not to dwell on them too much.

Good things to know

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

Dwell 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 academic discussions or professional meetings.

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

Synonyms

• ruminate
• ponder
• brood
• reflect
• consider
• contemplate
• mull over
• think about

Antonyms

• ignore
• overlook
• disregard
• forget
• neglect
• dismiss
• let go