1 B2 idiomatic informal
To gradually become aware of or understand a specific fact, plan, or situation.
"The children soon cottoned on to the fact that presents were hidden in the wardrobe."
inseparable
cotton on to
B2 informal inseparable transitive
To gradually realise or understand a specific thing.
In plain English
To slowly figure out a particular thing or idea.
What does "cotton on to" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
As with 'cotton on' — the idea of soft fibres gradually clinging or attaching to something.
Actually means
To slowly figure out a particular thing or idea.
Usage tip
Chiefly British and Australian. The object specifies what has been understood. Interchangeable with 'cotton onto'.
Words that pair with "cotton on to"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
trick idea plan truth secret joke
How to conjugate "cotton on to"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
cotton on to
I/you/we/they
3rd person
cottons on to
he/she/it
Past simple
cottoned on to
yesterday
Past participle
cottoned on to
have + pp
-ing form
cottoning on to
continuous
Hear "cotton on to" in the wild
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