be on to

1. Be aware of or have information about, as in They can't pull that trick again; we're on to them now . [ Colloquial ; second half of 1800s]

2. Discover something important or profitable, as in The researchers claim they are really on to something big . [ Colloquial ; mid-1900s]

Example Sentences

It is not yet clear which "priority courses" students would have to be on to be eligible for a grant, with the government saying more details would be provided in November's autumn Budget.

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Their smiles and laughter suggest it was a bit of banter, but might they be on to something?

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With a resume as eclectic and consistent as his, he must be on to something.

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Mamdani still has to win in the general election in November, and if he prevails, the pressure will be on to prove he can actually deliver on his big promises despite limited experience in government.

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Plus, there is a huge need for housing in Los Angeles and the pressure will be on to increase density.

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Related Words

• ascertain 
• bring to light 
• drive out www.thesaurus.com
• get at 
• sniff out 
• uncover 
• unearth