on, be

¹

be on

²

1. Be scheduled, as in Is tonight's rally still on? [ Colloquial ; second half of 1990s]

2. Be taking medication or an illegal drug, as in Are you on some antibiotic? or He was definitely on narcotics when it happened . [1930s]

3. Be in favor of something or willing to participate, as in We're going dancing after the play—are you on? [ Colloquial ; late 1800s]

4. not be on . Be unacceptable, not allowable, as in I can't believe you'd cancel; that's just not on . This usage is more common in Britain than America. [ Colloquial ; 1930s] For a synonym, see not done . Also see be on to .

5. be on one . Be at one's expense, either as a treat or the butt of a joke. For example, This round of drinks is on me , or He enjoys a good laugh, even when the joke's on him . [ Colloquial ; second half of 1800s]

6. Perform extremely well, as in I can't return Dan's serve—he's really on today . [ Slang ; second half of 1900s]

7. Be engaged in some action, especially on the stage, as in Hurry up, you're on in five minutes . [Late 1700s]

Idioms and Phrases

see be on .

Example Sentences

And also it meant that we could really connect when we were on this film.

From Los Angeles Times

But for now, the focus is on the festival, from figuring out the schedule to promoting it on social media.

From Los Angeles Times

When they went on their road trip, “all of our friends and both of our mothers were convinced that we were on a romantic getaway,” she says.

From Los Angeles Times

For the next two days, firefighters were on the defensive.

From Los Angeles Times

If Harris had done as well as Biden with women and Hispanics, she might be on her way to the White House.

From Salon

Related Words

• display
• execute
• give
• go on
• offer
• play
• present
• produce
• represent
• show
• stage