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Grammar fix

bank on

depend on something happening

To rely on something or someone to happen or help you, because you expect it will.

phrasal verbB2common

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • You can always bank on Sarah to help you when you need it.daily life
  • In my opinion, you can't bank on good weather for outdoor events, so it's important to have a backup plan.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: bank on + noun/gerund

WrongDon't bank on to get a refund.

RightDon't bank on getting a refund.

'Bank on' + -ing or a noun, never 'to + verb'.

Patternbank on + noun/gerund

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff I would not rely with absolute certainty upon his attendance.

Natural I wouldn't bank on him showing up.

'Rely with absolute certainty upon' is wordy; 'bank on' is the natural idiom.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • bank on + outcome
    ithimgettingthat

Don't confuse it

Not the same as 'count out' (which means to not include or not expect something).

Try it in Daily Speak →