What are the definitions of “go on to”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Proceed.
We had dinner and WENT ON TO a few bars.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “go on to”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb go on to is to proceed or continue with something. It is often used when talking about the next activity or step in a sequence or process. For example, after finishing one task, you might go on to the next task.
What are the different verb forms of “go on to”?
| Root Verb | go on to |
| Third Person Singular Present | goes on to |
| Present Participle | going on to |
| Simple Past | went on to |
| Past Participle | gone on to |
Example
After finishing my homework, I will go on to reading my favorite book.
Example
She finishes her chores and then goes on to her homework.
Example
He is going on to the next chapter after finishing the current one.
Example
After the meeting, they went on to discuss the project details.
Example
Having completed his degree, he has gone on to pursue a master's degree.
What kind of phrasal verb is “go on to”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“go on to” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
After the concert, we went on to a party.
Example
She went on to explain the details of the project.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“go on to” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
After the concert, we went on to a party.
Example
She went on to explain the details of the project.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “go on to”?
Good things to know
Does “go on to” have an informal or formal tone?
Go on to is a neutral phrasal verb. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts. In a formal setting, it might be used in a business meeting or academic writing to indicate the next point or topic. In an informal context, it can be used in everyday conversation to describe the next activity or event.
