pack on
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Phrasal Verb:
- To gain weight, typically in a noticeable or relatively rapid amount.
Usage
- This phrasal verb is used informally to describe the process of gaining body weight. It is often used with a direct object specifying the amount of weight gained (e.g., "pounds," "kilos"). It can imply the weight gain was unintentional or due to a specific period of indulgence.
Examples
Advanced Usage
- The verb can be used in the imperative mood for emphasis or instruction.
- "Pack on the pounds!" the coach yelled, wanting the athlete to gain mass.
- It can be used figuratively to mean adding something in a substantial, often burdensome, way.
- The new regulations will pack on extra costs for small businesses. (Note: This is an extended, figurative use beyond the core definition of gaining physical weight.)
Variants and Related Words
- Pack (verb): To fill or load a container; to crowd together.
- Packed (adjective): Very crowded; filled to capacity.
Synonyms
- Put on: To gain (weight).
- Gain: To increase in amount, especially weight.
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Pack in: To stop doing something; to attract large crowds.
- He decided to pack in his job and travel.
- Pack away: To eat a large amount of food.
- He can really pack away the pizza!
Related Idioms
- Pack a punch: To have a powerful effect.
- This chili sauce really packs a punch.
- Pack it in: To give up; to stop trying.
- After the third failure, he was ready to pack it in.
Verb
- gain (weight)
- He packed on two pounds over the summer