Phrasal verbs "go on" vs "go on about"

Differences between go on and go on about

Go on usually means to continue doing something or to proceed with an action, while go on about means to talk excessively or at length about a particular topic.

Meanings and Definitions: go on vs go on about

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 on about

  • 1Talk too much.

    He's always GOING ON ABOUT his kids.

Usage Examples: go on, go on about 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 on about

Example

She always goes on about her vacation in Italy.

Example

He goes on about his new car every time we meet.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go on

To keep doing something without stopping.

Example

She decided to continue studying for her exam even though it was late at night.

To move forward with a plan or action.

Example

The company decided to proceed with the new marketing campaign despite some initial concerns.

To continue doing something without interruption.

Example

He told his friend to carry on with the game while he went to get some snacks.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go on about

To talk at length about something in a disorganized or unstructured way.

Example

He rambled on about his vacation for hours, even though no one was really interested.

To talk in a monotonous or boring way about a particular topic.

Example

The professor droned on about the history of economics for the entire class period.

rant and rave

To express strong emotions or opinions in a loud or angry way.

Example

She ranted and raved about the poor service at the restaurant, even though the food was good.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

Phrasal Verbs with “on about”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: go on or go on about?

In daily conversation, people use go on more often than go on about. This is because go on is used for more general situations such as continuing a task or activity. Go on about is more specific and used when someone talks too much about a particular topic. So, while both phrases are used, go on is more common in everyday conversation.

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

Go on and go on about 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 on about

The tone of go on and go on about can differ based on context. Go on often carries a neutral or positive tone when related to continuing an activity or conversation, while go on about typically has a negative or annoyed tone, especially when referring to someone who talks excessively.

go on & go on about: Synonyms and Antonyms

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