try on

What it means

To put on a piece of clothing briefly to see whether it fits or suits you, usually before buying it. It is separable: you can try on a jacket or try a jacket on, and 'try it on' is the only correct form with a pronoun.

Examples

• Can I try this dress on before I decide whether to buy it?
• She tried on five pairs of jeans but didn't like any of them.
• He tried the suit on and asked the shop assistant for a smaller size.
• Always try shoes on in the afternoon, when your feet are slightly larger.

Where it comes from

Standard retail English since the 19th century, built from 'try' (to test) and 'on' (the position of clothing on the body). In British English, 'try it on with someone' can also mean to flirt or test their patience.

Related phrasal verbs