Differences between come on and go on
Come on is often used to encourage someone to do something or to express disbelief or disappointment, while go on is used to continue doing something or to encourage someone to continue speaking.
Meanings and Definitions: come on vs go on
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Come on
- 1Encouragement.
COME ON; don't give up now when you're so close to finishing.
- 2Start an illness.
I've got a bit of a headache. I hope it doesn't mean I've got flu COMING ON.
- 3Start functioning ( machines, etc ).
The central heating COMES ON automatically an hour before I have to get up.
Go on
- 1Continue.
He WENT ON and ON talking and I was so bored.
- 2Happen.
There are loads of people out in the street; what's GOING ON?
- 3Start doing or taking something.
She WENT ON the pill when she met him.
- 4Be guided.
The investigators have no clues to GO ON.
- 5Be nearly a certain period of time.
It's GOING ON ten years since we met.
- 6Progress.
They asked me how the project was GOING ON.
- 7Spend money.
Most of my salary GOES ON my mortgage repayments.
- 8Start working ( electric / electronic equipment ).
The alarm GOES ON when you close the front door.
Usage Examples: come on, go on in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
come on
Example
The coach shouted, 'Come on! You can do it!'
Example
The heater comes on when the temperature drops.
go on
Example
Please go on with your story, I'm listening.
Example
She goes on about her problems all the time.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Come on
let's go
An expression used to encourage someone to start doing something or to move to another location.
Example
Let's go to the beach this weekend and enjoy the sun.
cheer up
An expression used to encourage someone to feel better or to be more positive.
Example
Don't worry about the exam. Cheer up and do your best.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go on
To continue doing something or to move forward with a plan or action.
Example
After reviewing the documents, we can proceed with the project implementation.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “come”
Phrasal Verbs with “go”
Differences in come on vs go on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: come on or go on?
Both come on and go on are commonly used in everyday conversation. However, come on is used more frequently as it has a wider range of meanings and uses.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of come on and go on
Come on and go on are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more professional tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of come on and go on
The tone of come on and go on can differ based on context. Come on can have an encouraging or playful tone, but it can also be used to express frustration or disbelief. Go on typically has a neutral or encouraging tone, especially when referring to continuing an action or conversation.
