put sth on
phrasal verb.phrasal verb. to start wearing something, like clothes, glasses, or makeup.
phrasal verb. to place an item of clothing, an accessory, or a cosmetic product onto one's body.
I put on my coat before I leave.
It's cold outside, so you should put on a warm sweater and a hat.
Before addressing the assembly, the chancellor ceremoniously put on the heavy robes of office that symbolized her authority.
Usage
The object is typically an item of clothing, makeup, or an accessory.
Teaching tip
Contrast the action 'put on' with the state 'wear'; learners often confuse 'I'm putting on a coat' (the action) with 'I'm wearing a coat' (the state).
Pitfall
He put on it.He put it on.When the object is a pronoun, it must go between the verb and the particle.
Last updated April 24, 2026