preposition

onto

To a position on a surface, or becoming aware of something.

The cat jumps onto the kitchen counter and watches me.

Etymology

The compound adds direction toward to the position expressed by on. Figuratively, being onto something means arriving at awareness of what is happening.

More examples

  • She slides the cookies onto a plate.
  • The detectives are onto his plan.
  • I think you're onto something with that idea.

Similar words

on
Often describes a fixed position rather than movement toward it.
upon
Can replace onto for surfaces, but sounds more formal.