On-Going - English Definition & Meaning

Definition

'On-going' is a variant spelling of 'ongoing,' describing something currently happening and continuing to develop. Essentially, it carries the same meaning as 'ongoing'. Think of it as the slightly older sibling of 'ongoing,' still relevant but less frequently seen. It emphasizes the continuous nature of an event or process. Like an on-going TV series 📺, it suggests episodes and seasons with no immediate end. However, 'ongoing' is the more common and preferred spelling in contemporary writing.

Etymology

The etymology of 'on-going' mirrors that of 'ongoing.' It combines 'on-' meaning 'in progress' with 'going,' referring to the act of proceeding. The hyphenated form was more common in earlier usage. As language evolves, compound words often merge into a single word. So, 'ongoing' emerged as the more streamlined and frequently used form. It's a subtle shift, but it reflects the natural progression of language.

Related Words

Examples

• "The on-going debate about social media's impact is crucial."
• "The company's on-going efforts to improve sustainability are commendable."
• "The project requires on-going support from the community."
• "We need to monitor the on-going situation carefully."

Encouragement

While 'ongoing' is the generally accepted form, understanding 'on-going' helps you recognize its usage in older texts or formal writing. Expand your vocabulary horizons! It shows you're attentive to nuances in language! 🤓

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