Differences between go on and play on
Go on usually means to continue doing something or to happen next, whereas play on generally means to continue playing a game or musical instrument.
Meanings and Definitions: go on vs play 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.
Play on
- 1Continue playing a sport though there might be a reason to stop.
It looked like a foul, but the referee told them to PLAY ON.
- 2Continue playing music.
The band PLAYED ON for another hour.
- 3Exploit a weakness.
They are just PLAYING ON our fears to get us to do what they want.
- 4Pun.
The advert PLAYS ON the slogan.
Usage Examples: go on, play 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.
play on
Example
The soccer team decided to play on despite the rain.
Example
She plays on the piano every day after school.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go on
To start doing something again after a pause or interruption.
Example
After the break, they resumed the meeting and discussed the remaining topics.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Play on
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “go”
Phrasal Verbs with “play”
Differences in go on vs play on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: go on or play on?
In daily conversation, people use go on more often than play on. This is because go on is used for more daily tasks and routines such as continuing a conversation or telling a story. Play on is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about playing a game or musical instrument. So, while both phrases are used, go on is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of go on and play on
Go on and play 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 play on
The tone of go on and play on can differ based on context. Go on often carries a curious or encouraging tone when related to continuing a conversation or an activity, while play on typically has a playful and enthusiastic tone, especially when referring to playing a game or musical instrument.
