"on" vs "onto"

Question

"on" vs "onto"

The phrases 'on' and 'onto' are both correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'On' is used to indicate position or location, while 'onto' is used to indicate movement or direction. It's important to choose the correct preposition based on whether you are describing a stationary position ('on') or a movement towards a position ('onto').

Last Updated: March 19, 2024

Use 'on' when describing a stationary position or location. For example, 'The book is on the table.'

Examples:

The cat is lying on the bed.
The painting is hanging on the wall.
The keys are on the kitchen counter.
She placed the cup on the saucer.
The sticker is on the laptop.

Alternatives:

at
in
upon
above
over

Use 'onto' when describing movement towards a position or location. For example, 'She climbed onto the roof.'

Examples:

He jumped onto the chair.
She stepped onto the stage.
The cat leaped onto the table.
The ball rolled onto the grass.
She threw the keys onto the bed.

Alternatives:

on top of
to
toward
into
up to

Answer 1

on

The preposition 'on' is correct when indicating position or location.

Answer 2

onto

The preposition 'onto' is correct when indicating movement or direction.

"on" vs "onto"

on

onto

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