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What does the phrasal verb “step on it” mean?

What are the definitions of “step on it”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

  • 1An imperative used to tell someone to go faster, especially when driving.

    I told the taxi driver to STEP ON IT as I was late for the meeting.

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb step on it is to go faster, especially when driving. It is often used as an imperative to tell someone to hurry up or increase their speed.

What are the different verb forms of “step on it”?

Root Verbstep on it
Third Person Singular Presentsteps on it
Present Participlestepping on it
Simple Paststepped on it
Past Participlestepped on it

Example

We're running late, so step on it!

Example

When he realizes he's late, he steps on it to get to work on time.

Example

She is stepping on it to catch the bus before it leaves.

Example

He stepped on it when he saw the traffic light turning yellow.

Example

She had stepped on it to make sure she arrived at the airport on time.

What kind of phrasal verb is “step on it”?

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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

“step on it” 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 driver stepped on it to get to the destination faster.

Example

When the light turned green, she stepped on it.

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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

“step on it” 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 driver stepped on it to get to the destination faster.

Example

When the light turned green, she stepped on it.

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

Step on the gas

Another way to say 'go faster' or 'accelerate', especially when driving.

Example

We're running late, so step on the gas!

Good things to know

Does “step on it” have an informal or formal tone?

Step on it is an informal phrasal verb, typically used in casual conversations. It is not appropriate for formal settings or written communication. In more formal situations, you can use phrases like 'hurry up' or 'go faster' instead.

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

Synonyms

Antonyms

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