be on at
B1 informal inseparable transitive
In simple words
To keep bothering someone and telling them to do something again and again.
Meanings
1 B1
idiomatic
informal
To repeatedly nag, pressure, or pester someone about a particular matter.
"My mum has been on at me all week to tidy my bedroom."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Distinctly British English. Always followed by a person ('be on at someone') and usually followed by the topic ('be on at someone about something'). Implies mild annoyance or frustration on the part of the speaker.
Commonly used with
always constantly keep parents boss partner
Forms
Base
be on at
I/you/we/they
3rd person
is on at
he/she/it
Past simple
was/were on at
yesterday
Past participle
been on at
have + pp
-ing form
being on at
continuous
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