Be on
be taking medication or an illegal drug, as in are you on some antibiotic? or he was definitely on narcotics when it happened. [ 1930s ]
be in favor of something or willing to partic-p-te, as in we’re going dancing after the play—are you on? [ ; late 1800s ]
be engaged in some action, especially on the stage, as in hurry up, you’re on in five minutes. [ late 1700s ]
perform extremely well, as in i can’t return dan’s serve—he’s really on today. [ ; second half of 1900s ]
be scheduled, as in is tonight’s rally still on? [ ; second half of 1990s ]
be on one. be at one’s expense, either as a treat or the b-tt of a joke. for example, this round of drinks is on me, or he enjoys a good laugh, even when the joke’s on him. [ ; second half of 1800s ]
not be on. be unacceptable, not allowable, as in i can’t believe you’d cancel; that’s just not on. this usage is more common in britain than america. [ ; 1930s ]
for a synonym, see be on to
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