Put On: Mastering the Phrasal Verb with Comprehensive Examples

The phrasal verb “put on” is a versatile and frequently used expression in English, carrying multiple meanings that extend beyond its literal interpretation. Understanding its various applications is crucial for both comprehending native English speakers and expressing yourself accurately.

This article delves into the intricacies of “put on,” exploring its different meanings, grammatical structures, usage rules, and common mistakes. Whether you’re an ESL learner, a student preparing for an English exam, or simply someone looking to refine their language skills, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and practice necessary to confidently use “put on” in any context.

Table of Contents

• Definition of “Put On”
• Structural Breakdown
• Types and Categories of “Put On”
  • Putting on Clothing
  • Putting on Weight
  • Putting on a Performance
  • Putting on an Act
  • Putting on a Substance
• Examples of “Put On”
  • Examples: Putting on Clothing
  • Examples: Putting on Weight
  • Examples: Putting on a Performance
  • Examples: Putting on an Act
  • Examples: Putting on a Substance
• Usage Rules
• Common Mistakes
• Practice Exercises
• Advanced Topics
• FAQ
• Conclusion

Definition of “Put On”

The phrasal verb “put on” is formed by combining the verb “put” with the preposition “on.” This combination results in a versatile expression with multiple distinct meanings. Understanding these nuances is essential for accurate and effective communication. “Put on” functions as a separable phrasal verb, meaning that the object can sometimes be placed between “put” and “on,” especially when the object is a pronoun.

Here’s a breakdown of the primary meanings of “put on”:

• To dress oneself in: This is perhaps the most common meaning, referring to the act of wearing clothing or accessories. Example: “I put on my coat before going outside.”
• To gain weight: This refers to an increase in body weight. Example: “He’s been putting on weight since he stopped exercising.”
• To stage or present a performance: This means to organize and perform a play, show, or other entertainment. Example: “The school is putting on a musical this year.”
• To pretend or feign: This implies deceiving someone by acting in a particular way. Example: “She was just putting on an act to get attention.”
• To apply a substance: This means to spread or apply something onto a surface, often the skin. Example: “Remember to put on sunscreen before going to the beach.”

Structural Breakdown

The basic structure of “put on” in a sentence is as follows:

Subject + Put + On + Object (Optional)

As a separable phrasal verb, “put on” allows for flexibility in word order, especially when the object is a pronoun. Here’s a more detailed look:

• When the object is a noun: The object can be placed either after “on” or between “put” and “on.”
  • Example: “I put on my shoes.” OR “I put my shoes on.”
• When the object is a pronoun: The pronoun must be placed between “put” and “on.”
  • Example: “I put it on.” (Correct)
  • Example: “I put on it.” (Incorrect)

The verb “put” can be conjugated in various tenses, affecting the overall structure. For example:

• Present Simple: “I put on my hat.”
• Past Simple: “I put on my hat yesterday.”
• Present Continuous: “I am putting on my hat now.”
• Past Continuous: “I was putting on my hat when the phone rang.”
• Present Perfect: “I have put on my hat.”
• Future Simple: “I will put on my hat.”

Types and Categories of “Put On”

The phrasal verb “put on” has several distinct meanings, each falling into a specific category. Understanding these categories helps in correctly interpreting and using the phrase.

Putting on Clothing

This is the most literal and common meaning of “put on.” It refers to the act of dressing oneself by wearing clothes or accessories. It’s a straightforward action and easily understood in various contexts.

Putting on Weight

This meaning relates to an increase in body mass. It often implies a gradual process and can be linked to lifestyle changes or dietary habits.

This usage is often associated with discussions about health and fitness.

Putting on a Performance

This refers to the staging or presentation of a theatrical or musical performance. It involves planning, preparation, and execution of an event for an audience.

This usage is common in the context of schools, theaters, and entertainment venues.

Putting on an Act

This implies deception or pretense. It means to behave in a way that is not genuine, often to impress or mislead others.

This usage carries a negative connotation, suggesting insincerity.

Putting on a Substance

This refers to applying a substance, such as lotion, makeup, or sunscreen, to a surface, typically the skin. This usage is common in discussions about skincare, beauty, and health.

Examples of “Put On”

To fully grasp the different meanings of “put on,” it’s essential to examine various examples in context. The following tables provide detailed examples categorized by each meaning of the phrasal verb.

Examples: Putting on Clothing

This table provides examples of “put on” used in the context of wearing clothes or accessories. Note how the object (clothing item) can sometimes be placed between “put” and “on,” especially with nouns, but must be between them with pronouns.

Sentence	Explanation
I put on my jacket because it was cold.	The subject is wearing a jacket due to the cold weather.
She put her shoes on before leaving the house.	She wore her shoes before going out.
He put on a hat to protect himself from the sun.	He wore a hat for sun protection.
They put on their gloves to keep their hands warm.	They wore gloves for warmth.
I have to put on my uniform for work.	Wearing the uniform is required for the job.
She quickly put on a dress and ran downstairs.	She wore a dress in a hurry.
He put his socks on inside out by mistake.	He wore his socks the wrong way.
Don’t forget to put on your scarf; it’s freezing outside.	Wearing a scarf is necessary due to the cold.
She put on her glasses to read the small print.	She wore glasses to improve her vision for reading.
He put on his tie before the important meeting.	He wore a tie for a formal occasion.
I put it on quickly.	I wore it quickly. (Pronoun object)
She needs to put on her best dress for the party.	She needs to wear her best dress for the party.
He put on his watch every morning.	He wore his watch every morning.
They put on their raincoats before going out in the rain.	They wore raincoats to protect themselves from the rain.
I put on my sweater because I was feeling chilly.	I wore a sweater because I felt cold.
She put on her jewelry for the special occasion.	She wore jewelry for a special event.
He put on his boots before going hiking.	He wore boots for hiking.
They put on their helmets before riding their bikes.	They wore helmets for safety while biking.
I put on my makeup after my shower.	I applied makeup after showering. (Can also fit the ‘apply’ meaning)
She put her coat on when the temperature dropped.	She wore her coat when it got colder.
He put on a clean shirt for the interview.	He wore a clean shirt for the interview.
I put on an old pair of jeans to do the gardening.	I wore an old pair of jeans to do the gardening.
She put on her favorite necklace to cheer herself up.	She wore her favorite necklace to feel better.
He put on his reading glasses to look at the document.	He wore his reading glasses to see the document.
They put on their dancing shoes and headed to the club.	They wore their dancing shoes and went to the club.

Examples: Putting on Weight

This table shows examples of “put on” used to describe gaining weight. The focus is on the increase in body mass, often related to diet or lifestyle.

Notice how the object is “weight” in these examples.

Sentence	Explanation
He’s been putting on weight since he stopped going to the gym.	His weight has increased because of inactivity.
I put on five pounds over the holidays.	I gained five pounds during the holiday period.
She’s worried about putting on weight during her pregnancy.	She is concerned about gaining weight while pregnant.
Eating too much junk food can cause you to put on weight.	Excessive consumption of unhealthy food leads to weight gain.
He didn’t realize he was putting on weight until his clothes didn’t fit.	He was unaware of his weight gain until his clothes became tight.
She is trying to avoid putting on weight by eating healthy and exercising.	She is preventing weight gain through a healthy lifestyle.
Some medications can cause you to put on weight as a side effect.	Certain drugs can lead to weight gain as an adverse effect.
He put on a lot of weight after quitting smoking.	He gained significant weight after stopping smoking.
She’s been putting on weight steadily over the past year.	Her weight has been gradually increasing.
It’s easy to put on weight during the winter months.	Weight gain is common in winter.
Since starting his new job, he’s been putting on weight from all the free snacks.	He’s gained weight due to the availability of free snacks at work.
She’s been putting on weight despite her efforts to eat healthily.	She’s gaining weight even though she’s trying to eat well.
He put on weight after his injury prevented him from exercising.	He gained weight because he couldn’t exercise due to his injury.
They’re both putting on weight, probably from eating out so often.	They are both gaining weight, likely due to eating out frequently.
She’s been putting on weight, which is a good sign after her illness.	She’s gaining weight, which is a positive indication after her sickness.
He’s been putting on weight since he started taking those new supplements.	He’s gained weight since he began using the new supplements.
I’m trying not to put on weight over Christmas by limiting my sugar intake.	I’m trying to avoid gaining weight during Christmas by reducing sugar.
She’s been putting on weight, and her doctor is concerned about her cholesterol levels.	She’s gaining weight, and her doctor is worried about her cholesterol.
He put on weight during his vacation, indulging in rich foods and desserts.	He gained weight on vacation by enjoying rich foods and desserts.
They’re both putting on weight as they get older, which is a natural process.	They are both gaining weight with age, which is normal.

Examples: Putting on a Performance

This table illustrates the use of “put on” in the context of staging or presenting a performance. The focus is on the act of organizing and performing a show or event.

Sentence	Explanation
The school is putting on a play this year.	The school is organizing and performing a play.
They put on a fantastic concert last night.	They performed an excellent concert.
The theater group is putting on a new musical.	The theater group is staging a new musical.
We’re putting on a talent show to raise money for charity.	We are organizing a talent show for fundraising.
The community center is putting on a dance performance.	The community center is presenting a dance show.
The children put on a puppet show for their parents.	The children performed a puppet show.
The university is putting on a series of lectures.	The university is organizing a series of lectures.
The company put on a training seminar for its employees.	The company organized a training seminar.
The museum is putting on an exhibition of ancient artifacts.	The museum is presenting an exhibition.
The church is putting on a Christmas pageant.	The church is organizing a Christmas play.
The local theater group is putting on Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” next month.	The local theater group is staging Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” next month.
They’re putting on a charity gala to raise funds for the hospital.	They’re organizing a charity gala to raise money for the hospital.
The drama club is putting on a play about the history of the town.	The drama club is performing a play about the town’s history.
The dance studio is putting on a recital showcasing their students’ talents.	The dance studio is presenting a recital showcasing their students’ talents.
The university is putting on a conference on climate change and its effects.	The university is organizing a conference on climate change and its effects.
The school choir is putting on a concert of holiday classics.	The school choir is performing a concert of holiday classics.
They’re putting on a festival celebrating the culture of the region.	They’re organizing a festival celebrating the region’s culture.
The art gallery is putting on an exhibition of contemporary paintings.	The art gallery is presenting an exhibition of contemporary paintings.
The sports club is putting on a sports competition for local athletes.	The sports club is organizing a sports competition for local athletes.
The community is putting on a fireworks display for the Fourth of July.	The community is organizing a fireworks display for the Fourth of July.

Examples: Putting on an Act

This table provides examples of “put on” used to describe pretending or feigning. The focus is on insincere behavior or deception.

Sentence	Explanation
He was just putting on an act to get attention.	He was pretending to elicit attention.
She’s putting on an act to make you feel sorry for her.	She’s pretending to gain sympathy.
Don’t be fooled; he’s just putting on an act.	Don’t be deceived; he’s pretending.
I think she’s putting on an act to avoid doing her work.	I believe she’s pretending to evade her responsibilities.
He’s putting on an act as if he’s really interested.	He’s pretending to be very interested.
She’s putting on an act of being innocent.	She’s pretending to be innocent.
They were putting on an act of being surprised.	They were pretending to be surprised.
He’s putting on an act to impress her.	He’s pretending to impress her.
She’s putting on an act of being strong.	She’s pretending to be strong.
He’s putting on an act of being busy.	He’s pretending to be busy.
I think he’s putting on an act of bravery, but he’s actually quite scared.	I think he’s pretending to be brave, but he’s really frightened.
She’s putting on an act of being uninterested, but I can tell she’s curious.	She’s pretending to be uninterested, but I can see she’s curious.
He’s putting on an act of being wealthy, but his clothes are quite old.	He’s pretending to be rich, but his clothes are rather old.
She’s putting on an act of being happy, but I know she’s going through a tough time.	She’s pretending to be happy, but I know she’s having a difficult time.
He’s putting on an act of being a good student, but he never does his homework.	He’s pretending to be a good student, but he never completes his homework.
She’s putting on an act of being an expert, but she clearly doesn’t know what she’s talking about.	She’s pretending to be an expert, but she clearly doesn’t know what she’s talking about.
He’s putting on an act of being a nice guy, but he’s always gossiping behind people’s backs.	He’s pretending to be a nice guy, but he’s always gossiping about others.
She’s putting on an act of being understanding, but she’s really quite judgmental.	She’s pretending to be understanding, but she’s actually quite critical.
He’s putting on an act of being humble, but he’s incredibly arrogant.	He’s pretending to be humble, but he’s extremely arrogant.
She’s putting on an act of being surprised, but she knew about the party all along.	She’s pretending to be surprised, but she knew about the party from the start.

Examples: Putting on a Substance

This table shows examples of “put on” used to describe applying a substance to a surface, usually the skin. The focus is on the act of spreading or applying something.

Sentence	Explanation
Remember to put on sunscreen before going to the beach.	Apply sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun.
She puts on lotion every night to keep her skin moisturized.	She applies lotion to hydrate her skin.
He put on some aftershave after shaving.	He applied aftershave to his face.
She puts on makeup before going to work.	She applies cosmetics before going to work.
He put on ointment to soothe the burn.	He applied ointment to relieve the burn.
She puts on perfume before going out.	She applies perfume before leaving.
He put on insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.	He applied repellent to prevent insect bites.
She puts on face cream to reduce wrinkles.	She applies cream to minimize wrinkles.
He put on hair gel to style his hair.	He applied gel to shape his hair.
She puts on lip balm to prevent chapped lips.	She applies balm to protect her lips.
Remember to put on insect repellent before going hiking in the woods.	Apply insect repellent before hiking to avoid bug bites.
She always puts on hand cream after washing her hands to keep them soft.	She always applies hand cream after washing to maintain soft hands.
He put on beard oil to keep his beard moisturized and healthy.	He applied beard oil to keep his beard hydrated and healthy.
She puts on a face mask once a week for deep cleansing and rejuvenation.	She applies a face mask weekly for deep cleansing and renewal.
He puts on a bandage after cleaning the cut to prevent infection.	He applies a bandage after cleaning the cut to prevent infection.
She puts on hair serum to reduce frizz and add shine to her hair.	She applies hair serum to reduce frizz and add shine.
He put on a cold compress to reduce the swelling on his ankle.	He applied a cold compress to reduce the swelling on his ankle.
She puts on cuticle oil to keep her nails healthy and strong.	She applies cuticle oil to maintain healthy and strong nails.
He put on a foot cream to soften the dry skin on his heels.	He applied foot cream to soften the dry skin on his heels.
She puts on eye cream to reduce the appearance of dark circles.	She applies eye cream to reduce the appearance of dark circles.

Usage Rules

The phrasal verb “put on” follows specific usage rules, especially concerning word order and object placement. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

• Separability: As mentioned earlier, “put on” is a separable phrasal verb. This means that the object can be placed either before or after the preposition “on” when the object is a noun. However, when the object is a pronoun, it must be placed between “put” and “on.”
  • Correct: I put the coat on.
  • Correct: I put on the coat.
  • Correct: I put it on.
  • Incorrect: I put on it.
• Tense Consistency: The verb “put” must be conjugated according to the appropriate tense. For example, in the past tense, it remains “put.”
  • Present: I put on my shoes.
  • Past: I put on my shoes yesterday.
  • Future: I will put on my shoes.
• Contextual Appropriateness: Ensure that the meaning of “put on” aligns with the context of the sentence. Using it incorrectly can lead to miscommunication. For instance, using “put on” to mean “gain weight” in a sentence about clothing would be inappropriate.
• Formal vs. Informal: “Put on” is generally considered informal. In formal writing, consider using more precise alternatives depending on the intended meaning.
  • Instead of “put on clothes,” consider “wear” or “don.”
  • Instead of “put on weight,” consider “gain weight.”
  • Instead of “put on a performance,” consider “stage” or “present.”
  • Instead of “put on an act,” consider “pretend” or “feign.”
  • Instead of “put on sunscreen,” consider “apply sunscreen.”

Common Mistakes

Several common mistakes arise when using the phrasal verb “put on.” Being aware of these errors can help you avoid them.

Incorrect	Correct	Explanation
I put on it.	I put it on.	Pronouns must be placed between “put” and “on.”
She putted on her coat.	She put on her coat.	“Put” remains “put” in the past tense.
He is putting on weight clothes.	He is putting on clothes.	Using “weight” in the context of clothing is incorrect.
They put on a joke.	They put on an act.	“Put on an act” means to pretend, not to tell a joke.
I put on to the lotion.	I put on lotion.	The preposition “to” is unnecessary.
She put on weight a lot.	She put on a lot of weight.	Correct phrasing for indicating a large amount of weight gain.
He put on sunscreen to the sun.	He put on sunscreen before going into the sun.	The preposition “to” is incorrect; clarify the context of application.
They put on a surprise.	They put on an act of surprise.	Clarify that they are pretending to be surprised.
I put on my shoes quickly on.	I quickly put on my shoes. OR I put my shoes on quickly.	Adverbs should be placed appropriately for clarity.
She put on a performance of dance.	She put on a dance performance.	Better phrasing to indicate the type of performance.

Practice Exercises

Test your understanding of “put on” with these practice exercises. Fill in the blanks with the correct form of “put on.”

Question	Answer
1. It’s cold outside; you should ________ your coat.	put on
2. She ________ an act to get out of trouble.	put on
3. He’s ________ weight since he started eating more.	putting on
4. The theater group will ________ a play next month.	put on
5. Remember to ________ sunscreen before going outside.	put on
6. I ________ my glasses to read the newspaper.	put on
7. She ________ her best dress for the party.	put on
8. He ________ a brave face, but he was terrified.	put on
9. They ________ a lot of effort to organize the event. (This is a slightly different usage, meaning “invest”)	put on
10. She ________ lotion after her shower.	puts on

Exercise 2: Rewrite the following sentences using “put on” correctly.

Question	Answer
1. I will wear it later. (Use “it”)	I will put it on later.
2. She gained five pounds.	She put on five pounds.
3. He pretended to be sick.	He put on an act of being sick.
4. They are staging a concert.	They are putting on a concert.
5. Apply sunscreen before you go out.	Put on sunscreen before you go out.
6. I will wear my hat.	I will put on my hat. OR I will put my hat on.
7. She is applying makeup.	She is putting on makeup.
8. He’s feigning disinterest.	He’s putting on an act of disinterest.
9. The school will present a musical.	The school will put on a musical.
10. Please wear your jacket.	Please put on your jacket. OR Please put your jacket on.

Exercise 3: Choose the correct sentence.

Question	Answer
1. a) I put on it. b) I put it on.	b) I put it on.
2. a) She put on weight. b) She put weight on.	a) She put on weight.
3. a) He put an act on. b) He put on an act.	b) He put on an act.
4. a) They are putting a play on. b) They are putting on a play.	b) They are putting on a play.
5. a) Put on you sunscreen. b) Put your sunscreen on.	b) Put your sunscreen on.
6. a) I put on my quickly shoes. b) I quickly put on my shoes.	b) I quickly put on my shoes.
7. a) She puts on always lotion. b) She always puts on lotion.	b) She always puts on lotion.
8. a) He’s putting an act of brave on. b) He’s putting on an act of bravery.	b) He’s putting on an act of bravery.
9. a) They are putting the concert on. b) They are putting on the concert.	b) They are putting on the concert.
10. a) Please put on quickly your coat. b) Please put your coat on quickly.	b) Please put your coat on quickly.

Advanced Topics

For advanced learners, exploring nuanced aspects of “put on” can further refine your understanding and usage.

• Idiomatic Expressions: “Put on” appears in several idiomatic expressions that add color and depth to the language.
  • Put someone on: To tease or joke with someone, often by telling them something untrue. Example: “Are you putting me on? Is that really true?”
  • Put on airs: To behave in a pretentious or snobbish manner. Example: “She’s been putting on airs since she got her promotion.”
  • Put on a brave face: To act as though you are happy or unaffected by something when you are not. Example: “Despite the bad news, she tried to put on a brave face.”
• Regional Variations: While the core meanings of “put on” remain consistent across different English-speaking regions, subtle variations in usage and frequency may exist. Being aware of these regional differences can enhance your understanding of diverse communication styles.
• Figurative Language: “Put on” can be used figuratively to describe abstract concepts. For example, “putting on pressure” means applying pressure or influence to achieve a specific outcome.

FAQ

Conclusion

The phrasal verb “put on” is a dynamic and essential component of the English language. Its multiple meanings, ranging from wearing clothes to staging performances and feigning emotions, make it a versatile tool for communication.

By understanding its structural rules, common usages, and potential pitfalls, you can confidently and accurately incorporate “put on” into your everyday conversations and writing. Consistent practice and attention to context will further solidify your mastery of this important phrasal verb, enhancing your overall fluency and comprehension in English.