Phrasal verb
jump on
Definition
phrasal verb. to criticize someone quickly or suddenly, especially when they make a mistake. You can also use it when people suddenly get excited about a new idea.
phrasal verb. to criticize or attack someone suddenly; also used to describe responding to an opportunity or trend with immediate interest. This phrasal verb is transitive and inseparable, meaning the object must follow the particle.
Examples
“You don't have to jump on me for every little mistake.”
“The press was ready to jump on the celebrity the moment she made a controversial comment.”
“Investors were quick to jump on the new tech stock, driving the price up within minutes of the market opening.”
Examples
simple
“You don't have to jump on me for every little mistake.”
contextual
“The press was ready to jump on the celebrity the moment she made a controversial comment.”
complex
“Investors were quick to jump on the new tech stock, driving the price up within minutes of the market opening.”
Usage
usually takes a person as the object when it means to criticize.
Teaching tip
distinguish from 'jump at' (to accept an offer eagerly) and 'jump to' (to reach a conclusion too quickly).
Pitfall
The boss jumped me for being late.
The boss jumped on me for being late.
omitting 'on' changes the meaning to a physical ambush or attack.
Phrasal verb
Particles
on
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
jump + on + object
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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