Phrasal verbs "follow on" vs "go on"

Differences between follow on and go on

Follow on means to continue something that has been started, especially in a sequence or series. Go on means to continue doing something or to proceed with an action or activity.

Meanings and Definitions: follow on vs go on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Follow on

  • 1Leave to meet someone after they have left the place you're at.

    He left an hour ago and I'll be FOLLOWING ON soon.

  • 2In cricket, if the second team to bat doesn't score enough runs, it has to bat again.

    They were over 200 runs behind and had to FOLLOW ON.

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: follow on, go on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

follow on

Example

I will follow on after I finish my work.

Example

She follows on after her friends leave the party.

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 Follow on

To continue doing something or to move forward with an action or plan.

Example

After finishing the first phase of the project, we need to proceed with the next steps.

To continue doing something, especially after a pause or interruption.

Example

Despite the technical difficulties, the band decided to carry on with the concert.

To resume an activity or conversation from the point where it was interrupted or paused.

Example

After the lunch break, we picked up where we left off and continued the discussion.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go on

To continue doing something without stopping or giving up.

Example

Even though she was tired, she decided to keep going and finish the marathon.

To continue doing something, especially after a pause or interruption.

Example

Despite the technical difficulties, the band decided to carry on with the concert.

To continue doing something or to progress with an action or plan.

Example

After resolving the issue, we can move forward with the project and meet the deadline.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “follow”

Phrasal Verbs with “go”

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

Differences in follow on vs go on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: follow on or go on?

In daily conversation, people use go on more often than follow on. This is because go on is a more general phrasal verb that can be used in various contexts, while follow on is more specific and used in certain situations such as discussing a sequence of events or actions. So, while both phrases are used, go on is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of follow on and go on

Follow on and go on are both 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 follow on and go on

The tone of follow on and go on can differ based on context. Follow on often carries a more structured and organized tone when referring to a sequence of events or actions, while go on typically has a more spontaneous and informal tone, especially when referring to continuing an activity or conversation.

follow on & go on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Follow on

Synonyms

Antonyms

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