Translation guide
The English phrase "go on" has many meanings. This guide covers the most common uses for learners: continuing an action, happening, proceeding to do something, talking too much, and a few other uses.
go on (continue)
Use with masu-stem of verb: 話し続ける (go on talking)
What's going on?
To keep doing something without stopping.
Attach 続ける to the masu-stem of a verb to mean 'continue doing V'. This is the most direct and common way to express 'go on doing'.
He went on talking.
It has been going on raining.
Used with verbs to indicate that an action continues into the future or over time. Often implies a natural progression.
I'll go on doing my best from now on.
Literally 'continue as is'. Used when telling someone to go on with what they were doing.
Please go on (with what you were doing).
To ask or say what is happening, especially in a situation.
The most natural way to ask 'What's going on?' when something seems wrong or unusual.
To move on to the next action or topic.
Simply 'next, V'. Used to transition to the next step or topic.
To describe someone talking continuously, often annoyingly.
Means 'keep chattering'. Often used when someone won't stop talking.
Urging someone to proceed with an action.
A common way to say 'Go on, please' when offering something or encouraging someone.
To use something as evidence or a reason.
Means 'based on N'. Used for decisions, judgments, or actions.
As time goes by.
Means 'as time goes on'. A standard expression.
When a device or light starts operating.
Intransitive verb meaning 'to turn on' or 'to come on'. Used for lights, power, etc.
The English 'go on' is highly idiomatic. Avoid directly translating 'go' and 'on' into Japanese. Instead, use the appropriate verb or pattern for the specific meaning.
go on talking
What's going on here?
A casual way to ask 'What's going on?' or 'What's the matter?'. Implies concern.
What's going on? Did something happen?
More formal, used for events or activities. 'What is taking place?'
What's going on in that building?
Let's go on to talk about the results.
Means 'move on to V'. Common in presentations or meetings.
Let's go on to the next topic.
Literally 'advance forward'. Used when you want to proceed without delay.
We're short on time, so let's go on.
He went on about himself.
Means 'speak at length'. Can be neutral or slightly negative depending on context.
She went on about the issue.
Means 'to grumble on and on' or 'to harp on'. Strongly negative nuance.
He's going on and on forever.
Go on, don't be shy.
Casual encouragement: 'Go on, try it.'
Don't be scared, go on and try.
We can't just go on what he said.
Means 'rely on N'. Often used when you have no other choice.
It's dangerous to go on his word alone.
As time went on, the pain eased.
More literary: 'as the years go on'.
As the years went on, his memory faded.
突然、明かりがついた。
Suddenly, the light went on.
Formal/technical term for 'light up' or 'illuminate'.
The warning light went on.
What's going on?