Differences between go on and stay on

Go on usually means to continue doing something or to happen next, whereas stay on generally means to remain in a place or position for a longer period of time.

Meanings and Definitions: go on vs stay 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.

Stay on

1Remain longer than anticipated.
She STAYED ON after she graduated to do a Master's degree.

Usage Examples: go on, stay 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.

stay on

Example

She decided to stay on at the company after her internship ended.

Example

He stays on at work late to finish his tasks.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go on

keep going

To continue doing something without stopping.

Example

Even though she was tired, she decided to keep going and finish the race.

carry on

To continue doing something despite difficulties or obstacles.

Example

Despite the setbacks, he decided to carry on with his plan to start his own business.

move forward

To continue progressing or advancing in a particular direction or goal.

Example

After completing her degree, she was ready to move forward with her career and find a job in her field.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Stay on

remain in place

To stay or continue to be in a particular location or position.

Example

He decided to remain in place until the storm passed and it was safe to drive.

stick around

To remain in a particular place or situation for a longer period of time.

Example

I think I'll stick around for a bit and see if anyone else shows up to the party.

hold steady

To remain stable or consistent in a particular situation or position.

Example

Despite the market fluctuations, the company decided to hold steady and not make any drastic changes to their strategy.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “go”

Phrasal Verbs with “stay”

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: go on or stay on?

In daily conversation, people use go on more often than stay on. This is because go on is used for more daily tasks and routines such as continuing a conversation or an activity. Stay on is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about remaining in a place or position. So, while both phrases are used, go on is more common in everyday conversation.

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

Go on and stay 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 stay on

The tone of go on and stay on can differ based on context. Go on often carries a curious or interested tone when related to continuing a conversation or an activity, while stay on typically has a more serious and focused tone, especially when referring to remaining in a place or position.

go on & stay on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Go on

Synonyms

Antonyms

Stay on

Synonyms

Antonyms