What are the definitions of “fasten onto”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Follow someone closely, normally when they don't want your company.
He FASTENED ONTO the minister on his visit and asked him repeatedly about the scandal.
- 2Give attention to something that confirms your beliefs.
They FASTEN ONTO any figures that they think can support their case.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “fasten onto”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb fasten onto is to follow someone closely, especially when they do not want your company. It can also mean giving attention to something that confirms your beliefs.
What are the different verb forms of “fasten onto”?
| Root Verb | fasten onto |
| Third Person Singular Present | fastens onto |
| Present Participle | fastening onto |
| Simple Past | fastened onto |
| Past Participle | fastened onto |
Example
The dog fastened onto the mail carrier's leg.
Example
She fastens onto her favorite celebrity whenever she sees him in public.
Example
He is fastening onto the politician, asking questions about the new policy.
Example
The reporter fastened onto the celebrity during the event.
Example
The child had fastened onto his mother's leg, not wanting her to leave.
What kind of phrasal verb is “fasten onto”?
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
“fasten onto” 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
The paparazzi fastened onto the famous actor.
Example
The journalist fastened onto the controversial topic.
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
“fasten onto” 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 paparazzi fastened onto the famous actor.
Example
The journalist fastened onto the controversial topic.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “fasten onto”?
Fasten onto someone
To follow someone closely, often when they do not want your company.
Example
The little girl fastened onto her older sister, not wanting to be left alone.
Fasten onto something
To give attention to something that confirms your beliefs.
Example
The conspiracy theorist fastened onto any evidence that supported his theory.
Good things to know
Does “fasten onto” have an informal or formal tone?
Fasten onto 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 discussions, depending on the specific context.
What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “fasten onto”?
Synonyms
- cling to
- attach to
- hold onto
- stick to
- follow closely
- focus on
- concentrate on
Antonyms
- disregard
- detach from
- let go of
- release
- ignore
- overlook
