carry on
continue doing something, even when it is difficult
What does "carry on" mean?
Examples
- Despite the noise outside, she carried on writing her report.
- The teacher told the students to carry on with their exercise while she stepped out.
- He lost his job but decided to carry on studying and finish his degree.
How to use it
Use this pattern when you want to name the activity being continued — this is the most common structure.
Even though she was tired, she carried on working until the report was finished.
Use 'with' followed by a noun phrase when referring to a task, project, or activity by name.
The manager asked everyone to carry on with their tasks while she took the call.
When the activity is already clear from context, 'carry on' can stand alone without specifying what is being continued.
There was a brief interruption, but the team just carried on as normal.
These additions emphasise that something continues even when there are good reasons to stop.
Despite the poor weather, the outdoor event carried on regardless.
Used to tell someone to continue what they are doing, especially in British English.
The director glanced at the rehearsal and said, 'Looks great — carry on!'
Common Collocations
Common Mistakes
After 'carry on', always use the -ing form of the verb, not 'to' + infinitive. This is the most common mistake learners make with this phrasal verb.
When 'carry on with' is followed by a person rather than an activity, it suggests a romantic affair — a completely different meaning. Always make sure the object of 'with' is an activity, task, or thing.
'Keep on' often suggests stubborn or even annoying repetition, while 'carry on' is more neutral and focuses on sustained continuation despite circumstances. They are not always interchangeable.
Usage
This phrasal verb is especially common in British English and sounds natural in both spoken and written contexts. In more formal writing, 'continue' is often preferred, but 'carry on' is perfectly appropriate in most everyday and professional situations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'carry on' have other meanings, or does it always mean 'continue'?
No, 'carry on' has more than one meaning. In this entry, it means to continue something, especially despite difficulty. However, it can also mean to behave in a silly or dramatic way, or in informal British English, to have a secret romantic relationship. The context usually makes the meaning clear — a separate section on this page covers the other senses.
Is 'carry on' more British than American?
Yes, 'carry on' is especially common in British English. American English speakers are more likely to say 'keep going' or 'continue' in the same situations. That said, 'carry on' is understood everywhere and is not wrong in American contexts — it just sounds more British.
Can I use 'carry on' in formal writing?
It is perfectly fine in most professional and everyday writing, but in very formal or academic writing, 'continue' is often preferred. For emails, reports, or general professional contexts, 'carry on' sounds natural and appropriate.
What is the difference between 'carry on' and 'go on' when both mean 'continue'?
'Go on' usually suggests continuing after a pause, often with someone waiting or listening — for example, 'Go on, I'm listening.' 'Carry on' focuses more on sustained continuation over time, especially when there are difficulties or challenges. If you want to show determination and resilience, 'carry on' is the stronger choice.
Can I say 'carry on with it' when referring to a task?
Yes, you can use a pronoun like 'it' after 'with' if the activity is already clear from context — for example, 'Just carry on with it.' This sounds natural in spoken English, though it is slightly informal. Make sure the pronoun refers to a task or activity, not a person.
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