Learn a new phrase and make your English sound more natural and interesting. Words We Use is a bilingual series that helps you understand idioms like 'Man On!'.
Man on! You’ll usually hear this expression shouted out loud. In football, players use it to warn a teammate that another player is coming towards them. But in everyday English, man on! can also mean “watch out, someone is right behind you”.
Today, you’ll hear it in all kinds of situations.
People often use it in football to warn teammates about approaching opponents:
- Man on! Number 10 is right behind you!
Players sometimes repeat it loudly to make sure everyone hears the warning:
- Man on! Man on! Man on!
Even though the phrase uses the word “man”, people of all genders commonly use it:
- She shouted “Man on!” to warn her teammate during the match.
You might also hear it in busy workplaces or crowded spaces, like restaurants:
- Man on, Jenny! Behind you!
Use it to announce that you are close by to someone. If you are at a bar, and are carrying drinks back to your table, you could say to people in front of you:
- Man on! Coming through!
Explore the entire series Words we use by clicking here to listen!
Credits
Host: Nick Pagano
Written by: Nick Pagano
Graphic design: Dory Wang
Educational consultant: Professor Lynda Yates
Produced by: Dory Wang
