switch on
phrasal verb·1 sense·particle on
Meanings
Activate by flipping a switch
Why “on”? The connection starts. The machine, light, or device begins working.
“Switch on the kettle.”
“Switch on the fan before the room gets hot.”
Don't confuse with
Switch on means activate by flipping a switch. Switch off means deactivate by flipping a switch.
Test yourself
“Switch on the kettle.” What does it mean?
Nearby in the meaning map
Sink In connects verbs by particle pattern, contrast pairs, and shared base verbs.
switch off
A contrast learners often mix up
Deactivate by flipping a switch
act on
Same on pattern: power start
Take action because of advice or information
bring on
Same on pattern: power start
Cause something, especially an illness or feeling, to start; Help someone or something develop or improve
catch on
Same on pattern: power start
Become popular or fashionable; Begin to understand something
click on
Same on pattern: power start
Activate by clicking
come on
Same on pattern: power start
Used to encourage, hurry or challenge someone; Begin to develop, especially an illness or weather; Start working or be turned on; Make progress or improve; Try to start a romantic or sexual relationship with someone; Be broadcast on television or radio
dawn on
Same on pattern: power start
Suddenly become understood by someone
flip on
Same on pattern: power start
Activate by flipping a control
Practice “switch on” in Sink In
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