How to Pronounce On

To pronounce "on", say ON — one syllable, IPA /ɒn/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

on

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Accent

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Speed

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1

Syllable

2

Letters

/ɒn/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “on”

"on" is a single-syllable word — say it in one clean beat. It rhymes with paragon and liaison, if that helps it stick.

What does on mean?

verb

  1. To switch on

    “Can you on the light?”

adjective

  1. In the state of being active, functioning or operating.

    “All the lights are on, so they must be home.”

  2. Performing according to schedule; taking place.

    “Are we still on for tonight?”

adverb

  1. To an operating state.

    “turn the television on”

  2. So as to cover or be fitted.

    “Put on your hat and gloves.”

Synonyms

turn onbaseonleg

Antonyms

offafterafterwardafterwardslatersubsequently

Hear “on” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Words that rhyme with on

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

paragonliaisonautomatonfawnlexiconphenomenondrawndenouementdonbygonepylonwithdrawn

Related words

bpsaddnsoourbsinbsoptisno

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "on"?▾

"On" has one syllable.

What is the IPA transcription of "on"?▾

The IPA transcription of "on" is /ɒn/.

What does "on" mean?▾

On: To switch on

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