Phrasal verb
bring on
To bring on something is to cause it to happen or to make it start sooner.
Meanings
to cause something to happen; to lead to a result
to introduce the next performer or part of an event
used to accept a challenge or show readiness for something difficult (informal)
Definition
“Bring on” most often means to cause something to happen, especially a reaction, change, or problem. It can also mean to introduce something as the next part of a show or event. In informal speech, it can be used as a challenge to show you are ready for something difficult.
Examples
- Too much screen time can bring on headaches for me.
- Please bring on the next speaker when the room is ready.
- He loves competition and says, "Bring on the toughest opponent."
- Cold wind tends to bring on her cough during long walks.
- They joked that the rainy forecast would bring on a quiet weekend at home.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse “bring on” (cause) with “bring in” (introduce or generate), so check whether you mean “cause to happen” or “introduce.”
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.