Differences between go on and hold on
Go on usually means to continue doing something or to happen next, whereas hold on generally means to wait or to hold something tightly.
Meanings and Definitions: go on vs hold on
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.
Hold on
- 1Wait.
Could you HOLD ON for a minute; she'll be free in a moment.
- 2To hold tightly.
We HELD ON as the bus started to move.
Usage Examples: go on, hold on 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.
hold on
Example
Please hold on while I find the document you need.
Example
She holds on to the railing when going down the stairs.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go on
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold on
hang tight
To ask someone to wait patiently or to hold on tightly to something.
Example
The rollercoaster operator told the passengers to hang tight as they prepared for the ride to start.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “go”
Differences in go on vs hold on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: go on or hold on?
In daily conversation, people use go on more often than hold on. This is because go on is used for more daily tasks and routines such as continuing a conversation or telling a story. Hold on is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're asking someone to wait or to hold something. So, while both phrases are used, go on is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of go on and hold on
Go on and hold 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 on and hold on
The tone of go on and hold on can differ based on context. Go on often carries an excited or curious tone when related to continuing a story or event, while hold on typically has a patient or urgent tone, especially when referring to waiting or holding something tightly.
