1. verb To physically climb or otherwise move onto something. Someone will have to go on the roof to clean those gutters.

2. verb To continue for a tedious or exasperating length of time. In this usage, "go on" is typically followed by "and on." That film was so stupid, and it just went on and on—I thought it would never be over! My date kept going on about his charity work, never even asking what I do for a living. I try to get a word in, but he always just goes on blathering away.

3. verb To engage in some activity or task. We went on a long walk around the neighborhood. When are you going on vacation?

4. verb To stretch out from a particular place. The river seemed to go on for miles!

5. verb To proceed or persist. Well, the party must go on, whether we have caterers or not! Can you believe that wisecracking kid went on to become a doctor?

6. verb To use some kind of computer or digital platform, which is stated after "on." Do you mind if I go on your computer and check my email? Just go on the website to order it—it'll take two seconds. Can you go on your phone and look up the directions?

7. verb To use as evidence or as an explanation for something. You won't be arrested, not when the opposing council has nothing to go on.

8. verb To appear before an audience. You go on right before the headliner. The band didn't go on until nearly midnight.

9. verb To be approaching some age, either literally or figuratively. My daughter is going on 16 and is very excited to finally be able to drive. I feel like I'm 30 going on 80 with all these aches and pains!

10. verb To start working. A: "Has the TV gone on yet?" B: "No, there must be a blown fuse."

11. verb To begin taking or using a medication, which is stated after "on." My doctor wants me to go on blood-thinners, but the side-effects worry me.

12. verb To start broadcasting. I can't believe it's been 30 years since that show first went on.

13. verb To engage in some prolonged action, usually a change in one's normal routine. Starting in the new year, I'm going to go on a diet. The man who went on a violent rampage has not been found by police yet. I went on a binge this weekend and felt sick for days afterward.

14. expression Please continue speaking or explaining. A: "So, I lost your car." B: "Go on." Go on, we'd like to hear your complete side of the story.

15. expression An invitation for someone to do something. Please go on—how wonderful was the gala? Go on, have a seat and tell me about yourself.

16. expression That's crazy or absurd! Oh, go on! You didn't really chase a bear out of your yard, did you?