English Vocabulary for learners
Expressions with the word 'ON'
from: 'on the ball' to: 'spot on'
| Expression | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| On the ball | Aware of what is happening and quick to take action | “Coaching young players keeps me on the ball.” |
| On behalf of | As a spokesperson for someone else | “I’m making this request on behalf of all the members.” |
| On the cards | Planned and likely to happen | “A new bypass to divert traffic is on the cards.” |
| On call | Available and ready to work when needed | “Many fire fighters are on call 24 hours a day.” |
| On display | Shown in a public place for all to see | "His paintings are on display at the moment." |
| On duty | Engaged in one’s regular work | “Two doctors were on duty the night of the accident.” |
| On a diet | Eat less food or only certain types of food, usually to lose weight | “No dessert for me please. I’m on a diet!” |
| On drugs | Regularly taking illegal drugs | “He’s drinking heavily, and I believe he’s on drugs too.” |
| On edge | Feel tense or nervous | "My nerves are constantly on edge these days." |
| On good terms | Have a friendly relationship | “I’m on good terms with all my colleagues.” |
| On ice | Suspended or postponed | “Plans for the nuclear power station are on ice.” |
| On leave | Absent from work with permission | "Emma is on maternity leave at the moment." |
| On the lookout | Watchful and attentive so as not to miss something | “The collector is always on the lookout for interesting items." |
| On your mind | Think about something | "The problem was on his mind all day." |
| On no account | Not for any reason | “On no account will I agree to the proposal. " |
| On occasion | Sometimes, but not often | "The boss has, on occasion, lost his temper." |
| On a par (with) | As good as or equal to someone or something | “Zoe is an amateur but she’s on a par with some professionals.” |
| On purpose | Intentionally | "The boy banged the door on purpose." |
| On principle | Based on your beliefs | "He voted against the proposal on principle." |
| On a roll | Enjoying a run of good luck or going from success to success | “Once her third article was published, Lisa was on a roll.” |
| On second thoughts | After further consideration | “On second thoughts she decided to accept the offer.” |
| On a whim | As a result of a sudden impulse, without prior planning | “Charlie left his job on a whim and went backpacking!” |
| Spot on | Completely accurate or correct | “Tony’s imitation of the politician was spot on !” |
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