Be/go on the wagon

usgb
phrase

To choose to stop drinking alcohol, especially when you used to drink a lot.

After many years of heavy drinking, John decided to go on the wagon.
Visual representation of "be/go on the wagon" - To choose to stop drinking alcohol, especially when you used to drink a lot.

Often appears as...

  • decide to go on the wagon
  • stay on the wagon

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "be/go on the wagon"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Sobriety Choice

The phrase emphasizes a personal decision to stop drinking for health or personal reasons.

Illustration for Sobriety Choice
She chose to be on the wagon before her health got worse.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Temporariness

Being 'on the wagon' can be a temporary commitment, not always permanent.

Illustration for Temporariness
After a month of sobriety, he fell off the wagon at the party.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Idiomatic Nuance

It's important to note the phrase is informal and often used in casual conversation.

Illustration for Idiomatic Nuance
My uncle has been on the wagon for three years now.
Visual representation of the word "Be/go on the wagon"

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