# put sth on

CEFR A2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/put-sth-on
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to start wearing something, like clothes, glasses, or makeup.

For teachers: to place an item of clothing, an accessory, or a cosmetic product onto one's body.

## Examples

- 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.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He put on it." but "He put it on." — When the object is a pronoun, it must go between the verb and the particle.

## Usage notes

- 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).

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.