CARRY ON

National Parks

📖 Definition

Carry on means to continue doing something, especially in spite of adversity or challenges. It implies perseverance and determination.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

Carry on means to continue doing something, especially in spite of adversity or challenges. It implies perseverance and determination.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
No
The verb and particle cannot be divided by the object.
Register
Neutral
Used in both formal and informal contexts without inherent stylistic connotations.
Transitive
No
Does not need a direct object to complete its meaning.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple carry on They carry on their work despite the difficulties.
Past Simple carried on She carried on with determination after the setback.
Present Continuous carrying on He is carrying on bravely despite the hurdles.
Present Perfect have carried on We have carried on through many challenges.

💡 When to Use

During challenging situations
Use it to describe continuing efforts when facing obstacles or difficulties. It implies perseverance and resolve.
Example: "Despite the storm, they decided to carry on with the event."
To encourage persistence
Employ it when advising someone to keep going, suggesting persistence and not giving up.
Example: "Carry on with your studies; success will come."
Casual encouragement
Use when giving informal advice or reassurance, suggesting it’s okay to proceed.
Example: "If you're enjoying it, just carry on!"

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Incorrect separation
❌ Wrong: Carry the show on.
✅ Correct: Carry on with the show.
💡 Tip: Remember, don't split the phrasal verb.
Using it as transitive
❌ Wrong: Carry on the tasks.
✅ Correct: Carry on with the tasks.
💡 Tip: Use 'with' for continuity.
Formal writing substitution
❌ Wrong: Carry on the operations.
✅ Correct: Continue the operations.
💡 Tip: Consider 'continue' for formal contexts.
Practice

CARRY ON - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

continue persist

Antonyms

cease

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"Even in tough times, they chose to ___ on."

carries
carry on
carrying
carried

"To carry on through challenges is to embrace life's essence, finding resilience and purpose in the chaos of existence."

In Context

During World War II, Britain faced the formidable threat of the Axis powers. In 1940, as the Nazis blitzed London nightly, Prime Minister Winston Churchill became a beacon of perseverance. Known for his stirring speeches, he urged the British people to carry on despite the relentless bombings. His words, "We shall carry on to the end," rallied a nation battered but unbowed. As the Battle of Britain raged, the Royal Air Force, outnumbered and exhausted, continued to carry on in defense of the skies. The Luftwaffe attacks tested Britain's resolve, but the spirit of survival prevailed. The iconic 'Keep Calm and Carry On' posters, initially printed by the British government to boost morale, became a symbol of defiance and unity. Throughout these desperate days, the phrase 'carry on' transformed from mere words into a national mantra. It inspired communities to rebuild amidst ruins, providing a sense of normalcy in moments of fear. By 1941, the tide turned; Britain's steadfast determination had thwarted the Axis advance. Churchill's leadership and the people’s resilience proved indomitable. By carrying on with tenacity, Britain demonstrated that even in the face of overwhelming adversity, courage and solidarity could conquer despair.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Carry On

What is the origin of carry on?

+
The phrasal verb 'carry on' originated in Middle English, deriving from the Old English 'carian', which means to concern or trouble. Its modern sense of continuing determinedly emerged in the 19th century.

Can carry on be used in formal and informal contexts?

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Yes, 'carry on' is neutral and fits both contexts. It's appropriate for personal advice, casual conversation, and even some formal writings, when suggesting continued effort.

What is the difference between carry on and continue?

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'Carry on' often implies overcoming adversity or persistence, while 'continue' is a more straightforward term for proceeding. 'Carry on' adds a nuance of determination or resilience.

Related Phrasal Verbs

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press onpush forpull throughbring upbuild on
Browse All National Parks Phrasal Verbs
National Parks Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



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