kætʃ ɒn
neutral
intermediate
- Base verb:
- catch
- Particle:
- on
- Separable:
- No
What does "catch on" mean?
- To become popular
- To understand or grasp something
Examples
- The new trend is starting to catch on.
- It took him a while, but he finally caught on.
- The product never really caught on with consumers.
- She catches on quickly - she's very smart.
- I hope this style catches on in Canada.
How to use it
Two distinct meanings: popularity (trend catching on) and understanding (person catching on). Context makes it clear.
Similar expressions
become popular
understand
grasp
Opposites
fail
miss
misunderstand
Related phrasal verbs
- catch up
To reach the same point as someone ahead
- catch up with
To reach the same position as someone ahead
- turn on
To start a device or appliance by pressing a switch or button
- get on
To board a bus, train, plane, or other transport
- go on
To continue doing something or happening
- put on
To place clothing or accessories on your body
Use it in a practice answer
Try "catch on" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.