on

preposition
UK: /ɒn/
US: /ɑːn/

  1. Located at the surface of something.

    1. The book is on the table.
    2. I saw a fly sitting on your nose just a moment ago, that was funny.

  2. Supported or suspended by.

    1. The picture hangs on the wall.
    2. My whole future depends on getting this job, so I'm really nervous.

  3. Concerning a particular subject.

    1. He gave a lecture on climate change.
    2. I read an interesting article on the history of jazz music the other day.

  4. Doing something, or being active.

    1. The TV is on.
    2. We have lots of work on this week, so it will be busy for everyone.

Synonyms

upon active concerning regarding about
on adverb

  1. To be scheduled or performed.

    1. What's on tonight?
    2. There's a good movie on at the cinema, do you want to go see it?

  2. To be worn or used.

    1. She has her new dress on.
    2. He always has his glasses on when he's reading so that he can see well.

  3. To move forward or continue.

    1. Let's move on to the next topic.
    2. After a short break, the meeting will move on to discuss the budget.
on adjective

  1. Activated or functioning.

    1. The light is on.
    2. Make sure the computer is on before you start using the internet.

  2. Taking place; happening.

    1. What events are on this weekend?
    2. If there is a special offer on this week I will buy a new phone.
on phrasal-verb

  1. To put clothing onto your body.

    1. Put your coat on!
    2. I quickly put on my shoes so that I was ready to leave with my friends.

  2. To tease or joke with someone.

    1. Are you putting me on?
    2. He was just putting you on about your hair, don't take it so seriously.

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "on" in English means: Located at the surface of something., Supported or suspended by., Concerning a particular subject., Doing something, or being active..

The phonetic transcription of "on" is /ɒn/ in British English and /ɑːn/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "on": upon, active, concerning, regarding, about.

Example usage of "on": "The book is on the table.". More examples on the page.