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to go on
[phrase form: go]
01
to continue without stopping
Intransitive: to go on | to go on with an activity
Example
The marathon runners were determined to go on despite the rain.
She did n't let the interruptions distract her and simply went on with her presentation.
1.1
to continue with what one was saying
Intransitive: to go on | to go on with sth
Example
He paused for a moment to catch his breath and then went on with his story.
The professor asked the student to go on and explain the second part of the theory.
1.2
to base an opinion or a judgment on something
Transitive: to go on a basis
Example
Detectives are struggling with this case because there's not much to go on in terms of evidence or witnesses.
You ca n't just go on appearances; you need more information to make an informed decision.
02
to come to be or to happen
Intransitive
Example
I'm not sure what's going on with all the commotion outside.
Is there anything unusual going on in the neighborhood lately?
03
to start operating or functioning
Intransitive
Example
The lights went out during the storm, but the backup generator went on immediately.
When you press the start button, the engine should go on without any issues.
04
(of a performer) to begin their performance
Intransitive: to go on point in time
Example
The lead actor's character does n't go on until the second act of the play.
The band is scheduled to go on at 8 PM and play until midnight.
05
(in sports) to enter a game as a substitute during a match
Intransitive: to go on | to go on for a player
Example
The star striker went on for the injured player to help the team maintain their lead.
The young talent was eager for a chance to go on and prove himself in his first professional game.
06
(of time) to move forward or pass without stopping
Intransitive
Example
As the years went on, he gained more experience and wisdom.
The party was a hit, and as the night went on, the atmosphere became livelier.
07
to talk about a person or subject at length, often in a tedious or complaining manner
Intransitive: to go on | to go on about sth
Example
She tends to go on about her health issues, and it can be quite tiresome to listen to.
He went on for hours about his work problems, and I could n't get a word in edgewise.
08
to pass to doing something, particularly once one has finished doing something else
Transitive: to go on to do sth
Example
After the meeting, she will go on to prepare a report.
He went on to establish a successful tech startup after graduating from college.
go on
01
used to urge someone to speak or continue talking
02
used to express disbelief or surprise
03
used to urge someone to continue or engage in a specific action or activity
Example
Go on — take the leap and start your own business.
Go on!
