Comprehensive Guide to “Keep Going”
“Keep going” – Definition and Part of Speech
The phrase “keep going” typically serves as a verb expression in English. It encourages continued effort or persistence, often used both literally and metaphorically to motivate someone to maintain their current activity despite challenges. The structure consists of the imperative form “keep,” which is an instruction or request, combined with the gerund “going,” indicating ongoing action.
Core Synonyms
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Persist | Focuses on continuous effort in spite of obstacles. | “Despite the setbacks, she persisted in her research.” | Formal/Professional |
| Continue | Emphasizes uninterrupted progression of action. | “Please continue your presentation after a short break.” | Neutral/Formal |
| Press on | Suggests moving forward with determination. | “The team decided to press on despite the heavy rain.” | Informal/Casual |
| Carry on | Implies proceeding in the same manner or spirit. | “Let’s carry on with our meeting, shall we?” | Conversational/Informal |
Usage Notes
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Persist: This synonym is particularly useful in professional and academic contexts where resilience is highlighted. It suggests a level of determination against difficulties.
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Example: In business writing: “The company must persist in its strategic goals despite economic fluctuations.”
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Example: In academic papers: “Researchers often need to persist through trial-and-error to achieve breakthroughs.”
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Continue: This is a versatile word suitable for formal and neutral situations. It doesn’t necessarily imply overcoming obstacles but rather the seamless continuation of an action.
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Example: In business emails: “Please continue with the current marketing strategy until further notice.”
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Example: In academic settings: “The study will continue through the next semester to gather additional data.”
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Press on: Often used in more casual or motivational contexts, this synonym carries a connotation of moving forward with resolve.
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Example: Informally among friends: “You just need to press on and you’ll get through this.”
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Example: In creative writing: “The explorer pressed on into the dense jungle, guided by sheer determination.”
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Carry on: This expression is commonly used in conversational settings. It conveys a sense of maintaining the status quo or following established plans.
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Example: During team meetings: “We can carry on with our discussion after reviewing these notes.”
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Example: In casual conversation: “Let’s just carry on as planned; everything will work out.”
Common Pitfalls
- Persist vs. Continue: Learners often confuse “persist” and “continue.” Remember, “persist” implies overcoming resistance or challenges, while “continue” simply means to keep doing something without interruption.
- Press On vs. Carry On: Though similar in encouraging forward movement, “press on” has a slightly stronger connotation of determination against difficulties, whereas “carry on” is more about maintaining the current state.
Final Recap
The phrase “keep going” is synonymous with expressions like persist, continue, press on, and carry on, each carrying subtle differences in meaning and usage. By choosing the appropriate synonym based on context—whether it be formal, informal, or casual—you can effectively convey your intended message with clarity.
To improve your command of these synonyms, try constructing sentences using them in varied contexts. Engage in conversation to see how these words play out dynamically, allowing you to intuitively grasp their nuances over time. Practicing will not only enhance vocabulary but also the precision and richness of your communication.