Phrasal verb
leap on
Definition
phrasal verb. to jump onto something quickly or eagerly; to seize an opportunity with enthusiasm.
phrasal verb. to move suddenly and forcefully onto a surface or object; can imply both physical action and eagerness to seize an opportunity.
Examples
“The dog leaped on the bed when it saw the owner.”
“She leaped on the chance to work abroad despite the risks.”
“In a moment of desperation, he leaped on the last available train to escape the city.”
Examples
simple
“The dog leaped on the bed when it saw the owner.”
contextual
“She leaped on the chance to work abroad despite the risks.”
complex
“In a moment of desperation, he leaped on the last available train to escape the city.”
Usage
typically followed by a surface, object, or opportunity being seized.
Teaching tip
contrast with 'jump on' (more general) and 'grab' (more about seizing than physical movement); 'leap on' adds urgency and physicality.
Pitfall
He leaped the couch.
He leaped on the couch.
the particle 'on' is required to indicate direction; 'leap the' would mean something different (e.g. 'leap the gap').
Phrasal verb
Particles
on
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
leap + on + object
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/leap-on