leave on: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘leave on’ mean?
The idiom "leave on" means to intentionally keep something activated, running, or operating, especially when it should be turned off or stopped.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "let on" means to reveal or disclose something, often a secret or information that was previously unknown. It implies that the information was not openly known or shared, and someone has now chosen to make it known to others.
The idiom "leave the door open" means to keep a possibility or option available. It suggests not closing off or finalizing a decision or course of action, leaving room for flexibility or change in the future.
The idiom "leave someone to their own devices" means to allow someone to do something in their own way, without interference or help from others.
Meaning: To stop or cease doing something or to end an activity or behavior.
This idiom is commonly used to indicate the act of discontinuing or putting an end to a particular action or behavior.
The idiom "leave it be" means to not interfere or to let something remain as it is without trying to change or fix it.
The idiom "leave it at that" means to stop or conclude a discussion or action at a certain point and not continue any further.
The idiom "leave behind" means to forget or not bring something with you when you go somewhere. It can also mean to abandon or neglect someone or something.
The idiom "leave at the door" means to put aside or forget about something, usually negative or burdensome, and not let it affect the current situation or environment.
The idiom "lay over" means to have a temporary stop or stay during a journey before continuing on to another destination.
The idiom "lay on" means to apply or administer something, usually in a forceful or excessive manner. It can also refer to providing or giving something, often in a generous or lavish way.
Unexpected Symbolism
The idiom "leave on" is a commonly used phrase in English that has several different meanings depending on the context. One interpretation of "leave on" is to intentionally keep something switched on or in operation. This can refer to leaving a light switch on, leaving a device running, or neglecting to turn off a piece of machinery.
Another meaning of "leave on" is to depart from a place while leaving something or someone behind. This can imply abandoning or separating from someone or leaving an item without taking it along.
Additionally, "leave on" can also describe leaving a garment or accessory on one's person. It may be intentional or accidental, but it signifies not removing the item in question.
Furthermore, "leave on" can have a figurative meaning, representing the continuation or persistence of a certain situation or state. It suggests allowing something to remain unchanged without interference or intervention.
The related idiom "leave off" is used to indicate the act of stopping or ceasing an activity or action. It is the opposite of "leave on" and implies the act of turning off or stopping something that was previously left on. For example, if you leave the lights on in a room and then leave, you would need to remember to "leave off" the lights when you exit.
The phrase "leave it be" conveys the idea of allowing something to remain as it is without meddling or interfering. It suggests a hands-off approach, leaving something untouched or unchanged. It is similar to the figurative meaning of "leave on" in which you allow a situation to continue without intervention.
Another related idiom, "jog on," is an informal way of telling someone to leave or go away. It is often used in a dismissive or slightly rude manner to indicate that someone should leave a particular area or situation. It is different from "leave on" in that it suggests a more deliberate action of physically departing.
The expression "keep on" means to continue or persist in doing something. It implies an ongoing action or behavior without interruption. It is similar to the figurative meaning of "leave on" in that both suggest allowing something to continue without interference. However, "keep on" specifically emphasizes the act of continuing a specific action or behavior.
Lastly, the idiom "keep the show on the road" means to keep a situation or activity going smoothly or successfully. It implies the need to maintain momentum and progress without interruptions or setbacks. It is similar to the figurative meaning of "leave on" in that it emphasizes the importance of allowing something to continue without interruptions.
The idiom "leave on" is a versatile phrase with multiple meanings. It can refer to keeping something switched on, departing from a place while leaving something behind, leaving a garment on, or allowing a situation to continue. The etymology of this idiom is not easily determined, as it arises from the common usage of the words "leave" and "on." Its flexibility and wide application in various contexts make it a commonly used and understood phrase in the English language.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "leave on" can be used in a sentence:
- Please don't forget to leave on the lights when you leave the room.
- You shouldn't leave the stove on when you're not using it.
- He accidentally left his car's headlights on all night and drained the battery.
More "Verbs" idioms
