Pronunciation: [spˈɜːɹ ˈɒn] (IPA) 
The phrase "spur on" means to encourage or motivate someone to continue with a task or activity. The word "spur" is spelled with a /s/ sound followed by a /p/ sound, and the second word "on" is spelled with a /ɒ/ sound. In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be transcribed as /spɜr ɒn/. This phrase is often used in sports or fitness contexts, such as a coach who is trying to spur on their team to victory.
The term "spur on" is a phrasal verb that primarily means to encourage, motivate, or stimulate someone to take action or continue doing something, often by providing support, inspiration, or incentive. It implies infusing energy or enthusiasm into someone, nudging them towards achieving a goal or completing a task.
In a literal sense, the phrase originates from the action of using spurs, small metal devices worn on the heels of horse riders, to prod or stimulate a horse into moving faster. Figuratively, "spur on" functions similarly; it involves prodding and pushing someone forward in a non-physical sense.
When used in a social context, "spur on" suggests providing encouragement or inspiration to someone, giving them the momentum needed to accomplish a task or overcome a challenge. It often involves offering words of support, motivation, or advice to instigate action or boost one's confidence levels.
Furthermore, "spur on" can also express the act of incentivizing or inciting someone to push beyond their limits and reach their full potential. It may involve offering rewards or creating conditions that encourage progress and drive individual or collective achievements.
Overall, "spur on" is a dynamic phrase that describes the act of provoking, inspiring, or motivating someone to take action, overcome obstacles, and strive for success.
The word spur in its verb form means to stimulate, encourage, or prompt someone to take action. The etymology of spur can be traced back to Old English spura, which referred to a pointed device attached to the heel of a rider's boot to urge a horse forward. This concept of using spurs to drive a horse forward led to the figurative meaning of spurring on or stimulating someone's progress or motivation. Over time, this phrase has been adapted into the common expression spur on.
