American Dictionary

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Definition come on in American English

come on phrasal verb

phrasal verb
1

to start working by being switched on

Example

I saw a light come on in an upstairs window.

Synonyms and related words
1.1

to start to be broadcast

Example

We all had to be quiet when the news came on.

Synonyms and related words
2

to appear on a stage

Example

When he came on, the audience finally began to show some interest.

Synonyms and related words
2.1

to appear on television, or to be heard on the radio

Example

Then the president comes on and tells everyone to spend more money.

Synonyms and related words
2.2

to arrive on a sports field in order to replace another member of your team

Example

He came on as a substitute.

Example

Miller came on for his injured teammate with only two minutes left in the game.

Synonyms and related words
3

if an illness comes on, it starts to affect you

Example

I can feel another headache coming on.

Synonyms and related words
4

used for telling someone to hurry

4.1

used for telling someone to hurry

Example

Come on! We're going to be late.

Synonyms and related words
4.2

used for encouraging someone to do something such as make a greater effort or stop being sad

Example

Come on! It's not the end of the world.

4.3

used for telling someone that you do not believe what they are saying

Example

Oh, come on! Only a fool would believe a story like that!

Synonyms and related words
4.4

used for trying to make someone fight you

5

to show very clearly that you are determined to do something, especially to start a sexual relationship with someone

Synonyms and related words
Definition come on in American English