Differences between go on and move on
Go on usually means to continue doing something or to happen next, whereas move on generally means to leave a situation behind and focus on the future.
Meanings and Definitions: go on vs move 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.
Move on
- 1Change the subject or your job.
She MOVED ON to another company where the salary was considerably better.
- 2Make people move from a place.
The police MOVED the crowd ON because they were holding up the traffic.
Usage Examples: go on, move 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.
move on
Example
It's time to move on from this topic and discuss something else.
Example
She moves on quickly after a breakup.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go on
To continue doing something after a pause or interruption.
Example
After the break, the meeting will proceed with the next agenda item.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Move on
forge ahead
To move forward with determination and perseverance despite obstacles or setbacks.
Example
Despite the challenges, the team decided to forge ahead with their ambitious project.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “go”
Phrasal Verbs with “move”
Differences in go on vs move on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: go on or move on?
In daily conversation, people use go on more often than move on. This is because go on is used for more daily tasks and routines such as continuing a conversation or an activity. Move on is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about leaving something behind and moving forward. So, while both phrases are used, go on is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of go on and move on
Go on and move 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 move on
The tone of go on and move on can differ based on context. Go on often carries a neutral or excited tone when related to continuing an activity or event, while move on typically has a reflective or determined tone, especially when referring to leaving a difficult situation behind and focusing on the future.
