English · Common Verbs
go on
/ɡəʊ ɒn/
[/ɡəʊ ɒn/]
continue; happen
Intermediateverb
Definition
To continue, or to happen; also used to encourage someone.
Example
The lecture went on for nearly three hours, and several students fell asleep near the end.
The lecture went on for nearly three hours, and several students fell asleep near the end.
Etymology
From 'go' plus 'on', a very old phrasal verb spanning continuing and occurring.
How & Where It’s Used
Ubiquitous; 'what's going on?' asks what is happening, and 'go on!' encourages.