not on

phrase

British, informal
1
: not acceptable or proper
Cheating old ladies out of their savings just isn't on.
2
: not possible
I'm afraid that scheme's just not on.

Examples of not on in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Several experts told Fox News Digital that Harry and William are still not on speaking terms. — Stephanie Nolasco , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 26 Oct. 2026 Per a 2016 rule, students were allowed to chalk on walkways, concrete and asphalt but at least 30 feet away from building entrances and not on walls and vertical surfaces. — Tarini Mehta, Sacbee.com, 25 Oct. 2026 Bonmati is not on the shortlist after breaking her leg in December. — ABC News, 25 Oct. 2026 Irving is not on the Mavericks’ injury report and is expected to be available against the Heat. — Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 25 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for not on

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Not on.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/not%20on. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster