Browse all

bung it on

C1 slang inseparable intransitive

Australian slang: to exaggerate, fake a reaction, or make a scene to get sympathy or attention.

In plain English

To pretend or make a big fuss to get what you want.

What does "bung it on" mean?

2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.

1 C1 idiomatic slang

(Australian slang) To pretend to be upset, hurt, or ill in order to gain sympathy or get something.

"Don't feel too sorry for him — he's just bunging it on to get out of doing his chores."

inseparable
2 C1 idiomatic slang

(Australian slang) To show off or put on an exaggerated performance.

"She was definitely bunging it on at the party, pretending she knew all the celebrities."

inseparable
Usage tip

Distinctly Australian slang. Often used to describe someone who is faking pain, illness, or emotion. Can also mean to show off or act boastfully. Often used in a mildly accusatory tone.

Words that pair with "bung it on"

Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.

tantrum act performance tears pain

How to conjugate "bung it on"

The five tense forms you'll use most often.

Base
bung it on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
bungs it on
he/she/it
Past simple
bunged it on
yesterday
Past participle
bunged it on
have + pp
-ing form
bunging it on
continuous

Hear "bung it on" in the wild

Listen to native speakers using "bung it on" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.

Keep exploring

Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.