What Does “Count on doing sth” Mean?
“Count on doing sth” means to rely on or expect that something will happen or be done. It suggests trust in a future action or event.
Introduction
The phrase “count on doing sth” is commonly used in English to express dependence or expectation on a specific action or event. When you say you “count on doing something,” you are confident that the action will take place or that someone will do it. This phrase is useful in both casual and formal conversations. Understanding the count on doing sth meaning helps learners communicate certainty or trust about future plans or actions effectively. It is often used to reassure or confirm intentions, making it a practical expression for everyday English.
Quick Info Box
- Phrasal verb: count on doing something
- Type: Inseparable
- Level: B1 (Intermediate)
- Short meaning: To rely on or expect something to happen
Structure (Grammar Rules)
The phrasal verb “count on” is inseparable, which means you cannot place an object between “count” and “on.” When followed by a verb, use the gerund (-ing form).
- Correct pattern: count on + verb(-ing)
- Example: I count on finishing the project on time.
- Incorrect: I count on to finish the project.
How to Use “Count on doing sth”?
Use “count on doing sth” when you want to express certainty or trust about an action happening. It often appears in situations where plans, promises, or expectations are involved.
For example, you can say:
- I count on meeting you at the party.
- She counts on getting the job done before the deadline.
This structure helps you communicate confidence in future events or actions.
Examples
- We can count on winning the game if we practice hard enough.
- He counts on finishing his homework before dinner.
- You can count on her arriving early for the meeting.
- They count on finding a solution soon.
- Count on getting your package delivered by Friday.
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect: I count on to help you tomorrow.
- Correct: I count on helping you tomorrow.
- Incorrect: She counts on finish the report.
- Correct: She counts on finishing the report.
- Incorrect: We count on you will come.
- Correct: We count on you coming.
Differences / Synonyms
Count on is similar to rely on and depend on, but it usually emphasizes expectation or trust in an action happening.
- Rely on: Focuses on trust or dependence, often with people or things.
- Depend on: Often about conditions or necessity.
- Count on: Highlights confident expectation, especially with actions or events.
Example:
- I rely on my friends for support.
- Success depends on hard work.
- I count on finishing early today.
Common Collocations
- Count on helping
- Count on doing something
- Count on arriving
- Count on getting results
- Count on meeting deadlines
Related Phrasal Verbs
Here are related phrasal verbs of count on doing sth:
Real-life Dialogue
Anna: Can I count on you finishing the report by Monday?
Ben: Yes, I count on completing it before the weekend.
Anna: Great! That really helps with our planning.
Practice
Fill in the blank with the correct form:
- I count on ________ (finish) the project on time.
- She counts on ________ (arrive) early tomorrow.
- They count on ________ (solve) the problem quickly.
FAQs
- Q: Can “count on” be separated?
A: No, “count on” is inseparable and must stay together. - Q: What form comes after “count on”?
A: The gerund (-ing) form of the verb follows “count on.” - Q: Is “count on doing sth” formal or informal?
A: It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. - Q: Can “count on” be used with nouns?
A: Yes, you can count on someone or something, e.g., “count on her.” - Q: What is the difference between “count on” and “depend on”?
A: “Count on” emphasizes expectation, while “depend on” focuses on necessity or conditions.
