Phrasal verb
put on
To put on usually means to place clothing or an accessory on your body.
Meanings
to place clothing, shoes, or an accessory on your body; to dress in something
to start or present something for people to watch or listen to, such as music, a movie, or a show
to pretend or exaggerate feelings, behavior, or an attitude (often to trick, impress, or tease someone)
Definition
To put on means to dress yourself in something, like a jacket, shoes, or glasses. It can also mean to start a device or performance, such as playing music or presenting a show. In some contexts, it means to pretend or exaggerate an emotion or behavior to fool or tease someone.
Examples
- I put on my jacket before I went outside.
- Could you put on some music while we cook?
- He put on a cheerful smile even though he was tired.
- She put on her headphones and started cleaning the house.
- They put on a short play for their friends at the picnic.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse "put on" (start wearing) with "wear" (already have on) and say "I am putting on a jacket" when they mean they are already wearing it.
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.