Differences between go on and work on
Go on usually means to continue doing something or to happen next, whereas work on generally means to focus on and make progress with a task or project.
Meanings and Definitions: go on vs work 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.
Work on
- 1Improve or develop.
Scientists are WORKING ON genetically modified crops and foods.
Usage Examples: go on, work 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.
work on
Example
She needs to work on her presentation skills.
Example
He works on his painting every day.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go on
To continue doing something in a planned or organized way.
Example
After finishing the first part of the project, they decided to proceed with the next steps.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Work on
Differences in go on vs work on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: go on or work on?
In daily conversation, people use go on more often than work on. This is because go on is used for more everyday situations such as continuing a conversation or an activity. Work on is not used as much in casual conversations. It's mainly used when we're talking about making progress with a task or project. So, while both phrases are used, go on is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of go on and work on
Go on and work 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 work on
The tone of go on and work on can differ based on context. Go on often carries a casual or conversational tone when related to continuing an activity or conversation, while work on typically has a focused and determined tone, especially when referring to making progress with a task or project.
