Differences between be onto and get onto
Be onto means to have discovered or figured out something, while get onto means to start doing something or to contact someone.
Meanings and Definitions: be onto vs get onto
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Be onto
- 1Pursue, be aware of someone's true nature.
He's being very careful because he thinks the police ARE ONTO him.
Get onto
- 1Start discussing a topic.
We didn't GET ONTO the third item on the agenda.
- 2Be elected, appointed.
He didn't GET ONTO the committee.
- 3Appear on the radio or TV.
He GOT ONTO every major channel after the accident.
- 4Contact someone because you need or want them to do something.
We'd better GET ONTO someone to fix this.
- 5Enter a plane, train, etc.
She GOT ONTO the plane just before it took off.
Usage Examples: be onto, get onto in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
be onto
Example
I think she is onto our surprise party plan.
Example
He is onto the fact that they are lying.
get onto
Example
Let's get onto the next topic of our meeting.
Example
She always gets onto the main point quickly in her presentations.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Be onto
figure out
To understand or solve a problem or mystery.
Example
After hours of research, she finally figured out the solution to the math problem.
catch on
To understand or become aware of something after a period of time.
Example
It took him a while to catch on to the new company policies, but eventually, he adapted to them.
get wind of
To hear or learn about something through rumors or gossip.
Example
She got wind of the upcoming layoffs from a colleague before the official announcement was made.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Get onto
start on
To begin working on a task or project.
Example
He needs to start on the report as soon as possible to meet the deadline.
reach out to
To contact someone, usually for help or information.
Example
She decided to reach out to her network for job opportunities.
dive into
To start doing something with enthusiasm and energy.
Example
He couldn't wait to dive into the new project and make a positive impact.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “be”
Phrasal Verbs with “get”
Phrasal Verbs with “onto”
Differences in be onto vs get onto: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: be onto or get onto?
In daily conversation, people use get onto more often than be onto. This is because get onto is used for more daily tasks and routines such as starting a project or contacting someone. Be onto is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about discovering something. So, while both phrases are used, get onto is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of be onto and get onto
Be onto and get onto are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of be onto and get onto
The tone of be onto and get onto can differ based on context. Be onto often carries a confident or excited tone when related to discovering something, while get onto typically has a practical and proactive tone, especially when referring to starting a task or contacting someone.
