creep on

B2 neutral inseparable intransitive

In simple words

To pass or move forward very slowly and quietly, like time slipping by without you noticing.

Literal meaning: To creep means to move very slowly and quietly; 'on' means to continue moving forward.

Meanings

1 B2 idiomatic neutral

uncommon

For time, age, or a gradual process to advance slowly and almost imperceptibly.

"The years crept on and before she knew it, she was forty."

Grammar: inseparable

2 B2 idiomatic neutral

rare

For something unwanted or difficult to continue gradually without stopping.

"The cold crept on into April, making everyone long for spring."

Grammar: inseparable

Usage notes

Less common than 'creep up on'. Often used to describe time, age, or slow environmental changes. Slightly literary or poetic in tone.

time age years winter darkness evening

Base

creep on

I/you/we/they

3rd person

creeps on

he/she/it

Past simple

creeped on

yesterday

Past participle

creeped on

have + pp

-ing form

creeping on

continuous

Try:

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drag on inch forward move slowly advance gradually steal on

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