What are the definitions of “be onto”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Pursue, be aware of someone's true nature.
He's being very careful because he thinks the police ARE ONTO him.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “be onto”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb be onto is to be aware of someone's true nature or intentions, or to pursue someone or something. It often implies that someone is trying to hide something, but another person is aware of it and is trying to uncover the truth.
What are the different verb forms of “be onto”?
| Root Verb | be onto |
| Third Person Singular Present | is onto |
| Present Participle | being onto |
| Simple Past | was/were onto |
| Past Participle | been onto |
Example
I think she is onto our surprise party plan.
Example
He is onto the fact that they are lying.
Example
They are being onto the thief's plan.
Example
She was onto his dishonesty from the beginning.
Example
They had been onto the suspect for weeks.
What kind of phrasal verb is “be onto”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“be onto” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The detective was onto the criminal's plan.
Example
She is onto the fact that they are not telling the truth.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“be onto” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The detective was onto the criminal's plan.
Example
She is onto the fact that they are not telling the truth.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “be onto”?
Be onto something
To have a good idea or be close to finding the truth or a solution.
Example
I think you are onto something with that theory; it makes a lot of sense.
Be onto a winner
To have a successful idea or plan.
Example
With this new product, I think we are onto a winner.
Be onto a loser
To have an unsuccessful idea or plan.
Example
If we continue with this strategy, we are onto a loser.
Good things to know
Does “be onto” have an informal or formal tone?
Be onto is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as in business or legal discussions.
