Pronunciation: [dˈɒb ˈɒn] (IPA) 
The phrase "dob on" is a casual Australian slang term meaning "to report someone to authorities". It is often used in relation to reporting misbehavior or wrongdoings. The IPA phonetic transcription for "dob on" would be /dɒb ɒn/. The first syllable "dob" is pronounced with a short "o" sound, followed by a "b" sound. The second syllable "on" is pronounced with a short "o" sound, followed by an "n" sound.
"Dob on" is a colloquial expression predominantly used in Australian and British English slang. It refers to the act of informing or reporting someone's wrongdoing or misbehavior to an authority figure, such as a teacher, supervisor, or police officer. This term is typically employed in situations where one person willingly exposes or betrays another's secret, illicit activities, or rule-breaking actions.
The precise origin of "dob on" is uncertain, but it is believed to have derived from the word "dob" or "dob in," which emerged in Australian slang to mean the act of informing or betraying someone's misdeeds. Over time, the term was modified to incorporate the preposition "on," lending greater emphasis to the disclosure of information.
"Dob on" is often used with a negative connotation, suggesting disapproval or condemnation towards those who engage in the act of informing. It can also imply that the person who "dobbed on" someone is acting out of self-interest or to avoid being implicated themselves. For the individual being reported, being "dobbed on" can lead to potential consequences, reprimands, or disciplinary actions.
Although the term is mainly utilized in informal contexts, it has gained some usage in more serious situations, such as whistleblowing or reporting criminal activities. Nonetheless, it remains a casual term primarily associated with tattling or snitching, which can sometimes lead to strained relationships or negative social perceptions.
The expression "dob on" is primarily used in Australian and New Zealand English and means to inform or report someone's wrongdoing or misconduct to an authority figure. While the etymology of the phrase "dob on" is not entirely clear, it likely has its origins in British English slang.
One theory suggests that "dob" could be a shortened form of the word "dobber", which is British slang for an informer or someone who reports others to the authorities. The term "dobber" itself might have derived from the word "dobbin", meaning a working horse. In the context of informing on others, "dobber" alludes to a horse working hard or pulling a cart.
Another possibility is that "dob" is derived from an earlier British dialect term "dob in", meaning to put someone in an uncomfortable or difficult position.
