ON Synonyms: 117 Similar and Opposite Words

on 1 of 3

preposition

ˈȯn

Definition of on

as in toward

having to do with books on sports heroes are my favorite reading matter

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

as in against

in or into contact with don't lean on that ladder—you'll knock it over

Synonyms & Similar Words

2 of 3

adverb

as in forward

toward a point ahead in space or time we really must move on now if we're going to end this meeting before midnight

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

backward

as in along

toward or at a point lying in advance in space or time he's getting on in years and doesn't see or hear as well as he used to

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

3 of 3

adjective

as in operating

being in effective operation please don't leave the sanding machine on if you're not going to be near it

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of on

Preposition

This is due to the slow action of microbes on synthetic plastic polymers that are currently in use. — Muskan Bhatia, Interesting Engineering, 21 Oct. 2026 The Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement that its forces carried out drone strikes on logistics centers, port infrastructure and three cargo ships in the port of Reni in the Odesa region. — Arkansas Online, 21 Oct. 2026 Just 39% of Americans say AI has a positive impact on society, compared with 44% who believe its impact is negative, according to a national survey conducted this month by my company, Outward Intelligence. — Will Johnson, Time, 21 Oct. 2026 There’s a relatively rare severe-weather risk on Wednesday in parts of Arizona and Southern California. — Jamie Ross, Washington Post, 21 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for on

Recent Examples of Synonyms for on

Preposition

Others are trying to drive employees toward what are called Centers of Excellence—essentially hospitals or medical practices with high ratings that may save money in the long-term since employees won’t need to return again and again for care.

— Alana Semuels, Time, 22 Oct. 2026
As a result, Stiltz’s observations lean toward glib rather than casually profound.

— Harry Thorfinn-George, Pitchfork, 22 Oct. 2026

Definition of toward

Preposition

Catholics have used Scripture to argue for and against deportations and strict immigration enforcement.

— Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 25 Oct. 2026
This comes after Toney also already set the school record for single-game receiving yards in the season opener against Stanford.

— Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 25 Oct. 2026

Definition of against

Adverb

The 6-foot-9 forward who signed a veteran minimum contract showed willingness to pick up opposing ball-handlers full court.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 22 Oct. 2026
Ohio Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy is moving forward with a $4 million investment to run an ad featuring Democrat Amy Acton’s estranged mother after the video received fierce backlash.

— Claire Carter, The Washington Examiner, 21 Oct. 2026

Definition of forward

Adverb

Drake Maye, quarterback for the Patriots, has been further along in the league than his opponent.

— OutKick, FOXNews.com, 22 Oct. 2026
Doctors point to how the body regulates its own temperature at night, and how a cozy pair of socks can nudge that process along.

— Hanna Wickes, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 22 Oct. 2026

Definition of along

Adjective

The Georgia park was closed on Tuesday for a pre-scheduled non-operating day, officials said.

— Dan Raby, CBS News, 13 Oct. 2026
That sits on the books of the league’s 32 Equity investment arm, and 1/32 of any gains or losses in the entity flow through the Packers’ non-operating income.

— Kurt Badenhausen, Sportico.com, 24 July 2026

Definition of operating

Preposition

Metro Police detectives are continuing to investigate the shooting, and are in contact with the District Attorney’s Office regarding charging decisions.

— Vivian Jones, Nashville Tennessean, 18 Oct. 2025
Was any decision made regarding reducing Partey’s media obligations?

— James McNicholas, New York Times, 11 July 2025

Definition of regarding

Preposition

An increase has not been formally agreed upon and is still under evaluation, officials said.

— DJ Simmons June 17, Charlotte Observer, 17 June 2026
Since Köhler's early work, researchers have conducted similar experiments involving an out-of-reach reward and an object to stand upon in birds and elephants.

— Ari Daniel, NPR, 7 June 2026

Definition of upon

Adverb

The conversation went back and forth, with the staffer asking Jathar and his other engineering companions questions.

— Lucas Laursen, IEEE Spectrum, 22 Oct. 2026
Another turning point could come if Anthropic goes forth with an IPO, expected in November, followed by OpenAI.

— Michelle Fox, CNBC, 20 Oct. 2026

Definition of forth

Phrases Containing on

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Style

“On.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/on. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of on

preposition

adverb

adjective

Example Sentences

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