Differences between go for and go on
Go for usually means to choose or select something, or to attempt or try to achieve something. On the other hand, go on generally means to continue doing something or to happen.
Meanings and Definitions: go for vs go on
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Go for
- 1Attack.
The neighbour's dog WENT FOR the postman and bit him.
- 2Be attracted to.
She tends to GO FOR guys like him.
- 3Choose, select.
I'll GO FOR the soup of the day, followed by the duck.
- 4Try to get.
The player WENT FOR the ball but missed.
- 5Have something favourable.
The play didn't have much GOING FOR IT and we left halfway through.
- 6Pass for or serve as.
It's a couch that also GOES FOR a bed.
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: go for, go on in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
go for
Example
I will go for the blue dress for the party.
Example
She always goes for the vegetarian option at restaurants.
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 Go for
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go on
To continue doing something in a formal or organized manner.
Example
The meeting will proceed as planned, despite the unexpected delay.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “go”
Phrasal Verbs with “for”
Differences in go for vs go on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: go for or go on?
In daily conversation, people use go on more often than go for. This is because go on is used for more routine activities such as continuing a conversation or an activity. Go for is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about making a choice or attempting to do something. So, while both phrases are used, go on is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of go for and go on
Go for and go 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 go for and go on
The tone of go for and go on can differ based on context. Go for often carries a determined or enthusiastic tone when related to attempting or achieving something, while go on typically has a neutral or casual tone, especially when referring to continuing an activity or conversation.
