Differences between go on and go off
Go off usually means to explode or make a loud noise suddenly, whereas go on generally means to continue doing something or to speak.
Meanings and Definitions: go on vs go off
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
Go off
- 1Explode ( bomb ), start ringing ( alarm ).
The fire alarm WENT OFF because someone was smoking in the toilets.
- 2Go bad.
The milk WENT OFF because I forgot to put it in the fridge.
- 3Start to dislike.
I WENT OFF her when she lied to me.
- 4Leave a place.
Please don't GO OFF until we have sorted this out.
- 5Take place, follow a plan or pattern.
The party WENT OFF well.
- 6Stop working ( electric / electronic equipment ).
The lights GO OFF automatically when the office is empty.
Usage Examples: go on, go off in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
go on
Example
Please go on with your story, I'm listening.
Example
She goes on about her problems all the time.
go off
Example
The fire alarm will go off if there is smoke.
Example
The bomb goes off at the end of the movie.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go on
To continue doing something that has been planned or started.
Example
The team decided to proceed with the project despite the setbacks they encountered.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go off
blow up
To explode or burst suddenly.
Example
The fireworks blew up in a spectacular display of colors and lights.
explode
To burst or shatter violently, usually with a loud noise.
Example
The gas tank exploded on impact, causing a massive fireball.
Differences in go on vs go off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: go on or go off?
In daily conversation, people use go on more often than go off. This is because go on is used for more daily tasks and routines such as continuing a conversation or an activity. Go off is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about sudden events like alarms or fireworks. So, while both phrases are used, go on is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of go on and go off
Go on and go off 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 on and go off
The tone of go on and go off can differ based on context. Go on often carries a neutral or positive tone when related to continuing or speaking, while go off typically has a negative or alarming tone, especially when referring to explosions or alarms.
