Understanding the Phrasal Verb 'Go on': Meaning and Usage
The English phrasal verb Go on is incredibly versatile and frequently used in everyday conversation. Understanding its various meanings and how to use it correctly can significantly boost your fluency and comprehension. If you want to continue improving your English, mastering common English phrasal verbs like Go on is essential. This post will explore the different meanings of Go on, its grammatical structures, provide synonyms, and offer practice exercises to help you use it confidently when you learn English vocabulary.
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What Does 'Go on' Mean?
The phrasal verb Go on is a fundamental part of English, primarily meaning to continue or proceed with an action. However, its utility extends beyond just continuation; its meaning can shift subtly depending on the context. Sometimes Go on can indicate something happening or even be used to encourage someone. Grasping these nuances in phrasal verb meanings is key to using Go on effectively in your daily communication.
More: Understanding the Versatile Phrasal Verb 'Go Off' in English
Structure with 'Go on'
The phrasal verb Go on is remarkably flexible, and its phrasal verb usage can change quite a bit based on how it's employed in a sentence. Understanding the various phrasal verb meanings and structures is crucial for mastering this common expression. Let's explore some of its most common structures and meanings to help you learn English vocabulary more effectively. By examining these different forms, you'll be better equipped to use Go on with precision and confidence in various situations.
Meaning 1: To Continue an Action or State
This is perhaps the most common understanding of Go on. It signifies that an action, event, or state is not stopping but is rather persisting or being maintained. This usage is vital for expressing duration and is a cornerstone of everyday English.
Structure 1a: Subject + go on + verb-ing (gerund)
- This structure emphasizes the continuation of a specific action. It's direct and clearly shows that an activity is ongoing.
- Example 1: Despite the interruption, the speaker went on talking about the importance of English phrasal verbs.
- Example 2: She will go on working on the project until it's perfect, no matter how long it takes.
Structure 1b: Subject + go on + with + noun phrase
- This implies continuing a task or activity that was previously mentioned or understood. It's useful for signaling resumption.
- Example 1: Please go on with your story; I'm eager to hear the end and how it develops.
- Example 2: They decided to go on with the plan despite the setbacks they encountered early on.
Structure 1c: Subject + go on (intransitive, implying continuation)
- Sometimes, Go on is used alone to mean continue, especially as an imperative or in response to a question. It's a concise way to encourage persistence.
- Example 1: "May I ask a question about this phrasal verb?" "Yes, go on."
- Example 2: The rain went on all night, making the morning very fresh.
Meaning 2: To Happen or Occur
Another frequent use of Go on is to describe something that is happening or taking place. It is often used when inquiring about an event or situation, particularly if it's unexpected or unclear. Understanding this helps in comprehending unfolding events.
- Structure: Subject + go on
- This structure is often used in questions like "What's going on?" or statements describing events or activities.
- Example 1: There seems to be a lot going on in the town square today; it's very lively.
- Example 2: I couldn't understand what was going on because everyone was shouting at once.
Meaning 3: To Proceed to the Next Thing or Stage
Go on can also indicate a transition, moving from one activity, topic, or stage to the next in a sequence. This is useful for structuring narratives, presentations, or discussions, ensuring a logical flow.
- Structure: Subject + go on + to + verb (infinitive) / to + noun phrase
- This structure highlights progression from one point to another, indicating a sequence of actions or developments.
- Example 1: After discussing the budget, the committee went on to address the new staffing issues.
- Example 2: He started as an intern in the company and eventually went on to become its CEO.
Meaning 4: To Start Operating (Lights, Appliances, etc.)
This meaning is specific to devices or systems activating or beginning to function. It's a practical usage for everyday situations involving technology or machinery.
- Structure: Subject (device/system) + go on
- This is typically used for automatic or initiated operations of electrical or mechanical items.
- Example 1: The streetlights go on automatically as soon as it gets dark outside.
- Example 2: I pressed the power button several times, but the old fan just wouldn't go on.
Meaning 5: To Talk at Length (Often Excessively)
Go on can also describe someone speaking continuously, often for too long or about a tiresome subject. This usage often carries a slightly negative or impatient connotation, implying the speaker is being monotonous or repetitive.
- Structure: Subject + go on + about + noun/pronoun/topic
- The preposition "about" is crucial here to specify the topic of the lengthy, often tedious, talk.
- Example 1: My aunt can go on about her cats for hours if you give her the slightest encouragement.
- Example 2: He kept going on about how unfair his boss was, repeating the same complaints.
Understanding these varied uses of Go on will undoubtedly improve your phrasal verb usage and overall English fluency.
More: Unlocking 'Go into': Understanding This Common Phrasal Verb
Related Phrases and Synonyms
While Go on is a versatile phrasal verb, knowing some synonyms can enrich your vocabulary and help you express similar ideas in different ways. This can be particularly useful in formal writing or when you want to avoid repetition. Here are five synonyms or related phrases for Go on, relevant to its main meanings, that can help you learn English vocabulary more comprehensively.
| Synonym | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Continue | To persist in an activity or process without interruption. | Please continue with your excellent work. |
| Proceed | To begin or continue a course of action, often formally. | We can proceed to the next item on the agenda. |
| Happen | To take place; occur, especially of an event or situation. | What will happen if we are late for the meeting? |
| Persist | To continue firmly or obstinately in a course of action. | If you persist with your studies, you will succeed. |
| Carry on | (Phrasal verb) To continue doing something or behaving in a certain way. | They decided to carry on playing despite the heavy rain. |
Using these alternatives can add variety and precision to your English expression.
More: Understanding 'Go In For': How to Use the Phrasal Verb Correctly
Practice Time!
Now that you've learned about the different meanings and structures of Go on, it's time to test your understanding! These multiple-choice questions will help reinforce what you've learned about this important phrasal verb. Choose the best option for each sentence.
Question 1: Which sentence uses "go on" to mean 'continue an action'?
a) What's going on outside with all that noise?
b) The show must go on, despite the technical difficulties.
c) He went on about his holiday for nearly an hour.
d) The central heating will go on automatically when it gets cold.
Correct answer: b
Question 2: "I'm not sure what's ______ in that room, but it sounds like an argument." Fill in the blank.
a) go on
b) went on
c) going on
d) gone on
Correct answer: c
Question 3: If someone "goes on about something," it usually means they are:
a) Excitedly sharing good news briefly and concisely.
b) Quietly contemplating a very serious issue.
c) Talking for a long time, often excessively or tediously.
d) Quickly moving on to a completely new subject.
Correct answer: c
Question 4: The presenter paused for a sip of water, and then _____ to the next slide.
a) go on
b) went on
c) going on
d) gone on
Correct answer: b
How did you do? Practicing with examples is a great way to solidify your understanding of English phrasal verbs.
Conclusion
Learning and understanding the phrasal verb Go on is a significant step in your journey to mastering English. Recognizing its various meanings—from continuing an action, something happening, a device starting, to proceeding to the next stage—and how to structure sentences with it will greatly enhance your communication skills. We encourage you to go on practicing its usage in different contexts. The more you use Go on, the more natural and accurate your English will become. Keep up the great work in your language learning adventure!