Onto - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Onto is a preposition meaning on top of or to a position on, indicating movement toward and contact with a surface. It can also imply awareness or understanding, as in clue someone onto something.
Definition:
Moving to a position on top of or in contact with something.
Synonyms:
upon, atop, over
Part of Speech:
preposition
Antonyms:
off, beneath
Common Collocations:
step onto, climb onto, jump onto, hold onto, move onto
Derivatives:
—
Usage Tips:
Use "onto" for movement to a surface; "on" implies already being there.
Common Phrases:
hold onto your hat, get onto something, latch onto an idea
Etymology:
From Middle English "on to," combining "on" and "to."
Examples:
- 1. The cat jumped onto the table.
- 2. She held onto the railing tightly.
- 3. He moved onto the next chapter quickly.
- 4. The ball rolled onto the sidewalk.