be on to

1. Be aware of or have information about, as in They can't pull that trick again; we're on to them now . [ Colloquial ; second half of 1800s]

2. Discover something important or profitable, as in The researchers claim they are really on to something big . [ Colloquial ; mid-1900s]

Example Sentences

But he also knows the typical Fox viewer won't fact-check him, especially if that would prove the evil liberals might be on to something.

From Salon

Then it will be on to the European Championship, where he will spearhead England's hopes of a first major trophy in 58 years.

From BBC

When he talked to Dean Lomax, they suspected they might be on to a major discovery.

From BBC

After drilling there, the rover will be on to the crater rim.

From Science Magazine

The pressure will be on to settle these cases too.

From BBC

Related Words

• ascertain
• bring to light
• drive out
• get at
• sniff out
• uncover
• unearth