are on something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are on something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone is involved with or engaged in a particular activity, situation, or substance. Example: "The researchers are on something groundbreaking that could change the field of medicine."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

You are on something?

The Times

"The thing that really stands out is how powerful the economic influences are on something as fundamental as brain structure," said Prof. John Gabrieli.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Most of the time this is great as you get to see what all the different views are on something and it can help you no end.

The Guardian

"If you are on something like average earnings then the 8% we're talking about won't allow you to maintain your standard of living in retirement," Webb said.

The Guardian - Money

Residents of the Central Mississippi Valley are on something of a roller coaster ride -- a slow roller coaster ride -- when it comes to the threat of large earthquakes.

The New York Times - Science

Her retirement is another step in the right (or, technically, left) direction for Minnesota's progressives, who are on something of a roll lately with the defeat of a voter ID law and the passage of marriage equality legislation.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Could be on something".

The Guardian

"Michele is on something.

The New Yorker

I must have been on something.

Independent

My mind had been on something else.

The New York Times

Everyone seems to be on something.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are on something" to indicate involvement, progress, or the influence of a substance. Context is crucial for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "are on something" when a more precise verb like "using", "experiencing", or "researching" would provide clearer meaning. The phrase can be vague if the context doesn't provide sufficient clues.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are on something" primarily functions as a predicate in a sentence. It suggests a state of involvement, influence, or progress. Ludwig provides examples of its use in various contexts, ranging from scientific research to personal behavior.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are on something" is a versatile expression used to indicate involvement, progress, or the influence of a substance. Ludwig provides numerous examples showcasing its use across various contexts, primarily in News & Media. While grammatically correct, its specific meaning is highly context-dependent. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is acceptable, but users should be mindful of potential ambiguity and choose more precise language when clarity is paramount. The frequency of its use is considered common, and authoritative sources like The Guardian and The New York Times regularly employ it. Understanding these nuances ensures effective communication and avoids misinterpretation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are involved in something

Replaces "on" with "involved in" to emphasize participation or engagement.

are working on something

Focuses on the aspect of actively developing or creating something.

are onto something

Implies discovery or realization of something significant or valuable.

are experiencing something

Highlights the act of undergoing or feeling a particular event or state.

are under the influence of something

Specifically indicates the effect of a substance or force on someone.

are making progress on something

Emphasizes the advancement or improvement in a particular endeavor.

are affected by something

Highlights the impact or influence of something on a person or situation.

are consuming something

Focuses on the act of ingesting or using a particular substance.

are advancing in something

Highlights forward movement or development within a specific field or area.

are reacting to something

Highlights a response or action as a result of something.

FAQs

How can I use "are on something" in a sentence?

The phrase "are on something" is used to indicate that someone is involved in a particular activity, under the influence of something, or has discovered something of significance. For example, "The researchers "are onto something" groundbreaking with their new findings".

What does it mean when someone says "they are on something"?

It typically suggests they are either under the influence of a substance, actively pursuing a project, or have stumbled upon an important discovery. The specific meaning depends on context.

What can I say instead of "are on something" to indicate progress?

Alternatives include phrases like "are making progress", "are advancing in", or "are working on something".

Is there a difference between "are on something" and "are onto something"?

"Are on something" generally refers to being involved or under the influence. "Are onto something" implies the discovery of something important or being close to solving a problem.