Definition

1. Adverb:
   • On that, thereupon, thereon: Used to refer to something previously mentioned or indicated, meaning "on that subject," "on that matter," or "on that thing." It is a formal or literary way to say "on it" or "about that."

Usage

• The adverb 'on that' is used to avoid repetition by referring back to a specific point, document, object, or topic that has just been discussed. It is equivalent to "on that subject" or "concerning that."
• It is often used in formal writing, legal documents, academic texts, or commentary.

Examples

• Adverb:
  • The report was detailed, and the comments on that were insightful. (The comments concerning that report were insightful.)
  • He made a statement, and I have no further remarks on that. (I have no further remarks on that statement.)
  • The contract is attached; please sign your name on that. (Please sign your name on that contract.)

Advanced Usage

• 'Thereon': A more formal synonym, often used in legal or very formal contexts.
  • The deed to the land and the restrictions thereon are filed at the courthouse. (The restrictions on that deed are filed...)
• Used to refer to a physical surface or a specific point in a text.
  • The table was dusty, so I placed the book on that. (I placed the book on that [table].)

Variants and Related Words

• Thereon (adv): On or upon that or it.
• Thereupon (adv): Immediately after that; as a consequence of that.
• Whereon (adv, archaic): On which.

Synonyms

• Concerning that
• Regarding that
• On the subject of that
• Thereon (more formal)

Notes

• 'On that' functions as a compound adverb. It is often seen in the combined form 'thereon'.
• It is important to distinguish this adverbial use from the prepositional phrase "on that [noun]" (e.g., "on that day"), where "that" is a demonstrative adjective modifying a noun. The adverbial 'on that' stands alone, replacing a prepositional phrase.

Adverb

1. on that
   • text and commentary thereon