Differences between go on and go up to
Go on usually means to continue doing something or to happen, while go up to generally means to approach someone or something.
Meanings and Definitions: go on vs go up to
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 up to
- 1Approach.
She WENT UP TO him and asked him if he wanted a drink.
- 2Attend a university.
She WENT UP TO Cambridge after she finished secondary school.
- 3Reach.
The book only GOES UP TO the start of the Second World War.
Usage Examples: go on, go up to 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 up to
Example
I will go up to the counter and order our food.
Example
She always goes up to the teacher after class to ask questions.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go on
To keep doing something that was already started.
Example
After the break, we will continue with the presentation.
To move forward or continue with a plan or action.
Example
We need to proceed with caution to avoid any mistakes.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go up to
To move closer to someone or something.
Example
He decided to approach the group and introduce himself.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “go”
Phrasal Verbs with “up to”
Differences in go on vs go up to: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: go on or go up to?
In daily conversation, people use go on more often than go up to. This is because go on is used for more daily tasks and routines such as continuing a conversation or an activity. Go up to is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about approaching someone or something. So, while both phrases are used, go on is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of go on and go up to
Go on and go up to 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 up to
The tone of go on and go up to can differ based on context. Go on often carries a neutral or excited tone when related to continuing something or an event happening, while go up to typically has a friendly and confident tone, especially when referring to approaching someone or something.
