Differences between carry on and have on
Carry on usually means to continue doing something, while have on generally means to wear or have an item of clothing or accessory on one's body.
Meanings and Definitions: carry on vs have on
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Carry on
- 1Continue.
CARRY ON quietly with your work until the substitute teacher arrives.
- 2Behave badly.
The children annoyed me by CARRYING ON all morning.
Have on
- 1Be wearing.
What did Jennie HAVE ON at the party?
- 2Have an electronic device switched on.
I HAVE my computer ON all the time.
- 3Have an arrangement.
I HAVE a lot of meetings ON next week.
- 4Tease, deceive.
They said they'd failed, but they were HAVING me ON.
- 5Be in possession at a particular time.
I HAVEN'T any money ON me, but I can get some from the ATM.
- 6Know something about someone that could harm them.
I HAVE a lot ON him because we used to work together.
Usage Examples: carry on, have on in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
carry on
Example
Please carry on with your work while I step out for a moment.
Example
She carries on studying despite the noise outside.
have on
Example
What does she have on today?
Example
He has on a new suit for the interview.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Carry on
stick with
To continue doing something or supporting someone despite challenges or difficulties.
Example
She decided to stick with her friend through thick and thin, no matter what happened.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Have on
To have clothing or accessories on one's body.
Example
She decided to wear her favorite dress to the party.
To wear or display something with pride or confidence.
Example
He decided to sport his new watch to show off to his friends.
To put on or wear clothing or accessories.
Example
She decided to don her winter coat before heading out into the cold weather.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “carry”
- carry over
- carry off
- carry out
- carry forward
- carry on with
Phrasal Verbs with “have”
Phrasal Verbs with “on”
Differences in carry on vs have on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: carry on or have on?
In daily conversation, people use carry on more often than have on. This is because carry on is used for more daily tasks and routines such as continuing a conversation or activity. Have on is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about clothing or accessories. So, while both phrases are used, carry on is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of carry on and have on
Carry on and have on are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of carry on and have on
The tone of carry on and have on can differ based on context. Carry on often carries a determined or enthusiastic tone when related to continuing an activity or conversation, while have on typically has a practical and descriptive tone, especially when referring to clothing or accessories.
