is on

USAGE SUMMARY

Sentence No, the phrase 'is on' is not correct and usable on its own in written English.
When used in conjunction with other words to form an idiomatic phrase or expression, then 'is on' can be used in written English. Example sentence: The next phase of the project is on track; the team expects to have it completed by the end of the month.

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Europe is on fire.

The Economist

That is on management.

The New York Times

He is on television.

The New York Times - Arts

So pressure is on.

The New York Times

Broad is on fire!

Independent

Life is on hold.

The New York Times

The rout is on.

Independent

The fight is on.

The Economist

Lens is on Facebook.

The New York Times

Rose is on it".

The New Yorker

The contest is on.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is on" to mean something is scheduled, specify the date or time if relevant. For instance, "The event is on Friday."

Common error

Avoid using "is on" as a standalone sentence. It requires a subject to be grammatically correct. Using it alone can sound abrupt or unclear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is on" functions as part of a verb phrase, indicating that something is active, scheduled, or in progress. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase isn't correct when used on its own and necessitates additional context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "is on" is frequently used, it's crucial to remember that it's grammatically incomplete on its own. As Ludwig AI pointed out, it needs a subject and context to form a complete sentence. This phrase is commonly found in news and media, indicating that something is active, scheduled, or in progress. For more formal writing, consider using alternatives like "is scheduled" or "is underway". Always ensure that the context is clear when using "is on" to avoid any ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is scheduled

Indicates a planned or arranged event or activity, emphasizing the time aspect.

is in progress

Highlights the ongoing nature of an action or event, focusing on the activity itself.

is happening

Emphasizes the occurrence or taking place of an event.

is in effect

Indicates that a rule, law, or agreement is currently active and being applied.

is available

Signifies that something is accessible or ready for use.

is being shown

Refers to the presentation or display of something, such as a film or performance.

is being broadcast

Specifically indicates that something is being transmitted via radio or television.

is being played

Implies that a game, music or a recording is currently active or running.

is underway

Formally indicates that something has started and is currently in progress.

is operational

Emphasizes that something is functioning correctly and ready for use.

FAQs

How can I use "is on" correctly in a sentence?

Ensure that "is on" has a subject and context. For example, "The television is on" or "The project is on schedule" are grammatically correct.

What does "is on" mean when referring to an event?

When referring to an event, "is on" typically means that the event is still scheduled and will take place as planned. It's similar to saying the event "is scheduled".

What's a more formal alternative to "is on"?

In formal contexts, you might use alternatives like "is in progress" or "is underway" instead of "is on".

When should I avoid using "is on"?

Avoid using "is on" as a complete sentence without a subject. It's also best to avoid it in very formal writing where more precise language may be preferred.