onto
preposition
to a position on
“The cat jumped onto the table.”
Grammar choices
onto vs on to
Onto is one preposition meaning to a position on top of. On to is two words when "on" belongs to the verb (move on, hold on, pass on).
Quick test: If you can add "up" ("jumped up onto"), use onto. If "on" means "onward" or belongs to the verb, split it.
on to
adverb + preposition
"on" finishing a phrasal verb, then "to"
“Let's move on to the next topic.”
Try it: which word fits?
Drop each word into the blank. The explanation tells you why one works and the other doesn't.
She climbed ______ the roof.
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Questions about onto vs on to
What is the difference between onto and on to?
Onto is one preposition meaning to a position on top of. On to is two words when "on" belongs to the verb (move on, hold on, pass on).
How do I remember onto vs on to?
If you can add "up" ("jumped up onto"), use onto. If "on" means "onward" or belongs to the verb, split it.
Are there exceptions?
"I'm onto you" (I know what you're doing) is one word. "Hold on to the rail" is usually two.
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