Difference "On my way" and "On the way"

[EngFan]

Hi All,

I wanted to know the difference between "on my way" and "on the way". Thanks.


EngFan

[konungursvia]

Not much. But "the way" implies an established route, that everyone takes. "My way" just means coming, perhaps in a way that is unique. I'd be "on the way" from Montreal to Toronto on the train or the major highway. I'd be "on my way" from a random corner of the city to your house.

[Raymott]

Hi All,

I wanted to know the difference between "on my way" and "on the way". Thanks.


EngFan

Well, you can't say:
"He was on my way to work when he had a car accident."
Phone call to husband: "If you're leaving work now, can you pick some chocolate on my way home?"
"There are numerous asteroids on my way from Mars to Jupiter."