English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Carry on
Meaning
The idiom "carry on" is used to express that something should continue or proceed as planned, despite difficulties or challenges. It can also be used to encourage someone to keep going or not give up. The literal meaning of the idiom is to carry on something in a manner that is necessary or appropriate for the circumstances. The figurative meaning is to continue with a task or activity, even if it's difficult or challenging.
Usage
- "I have to finish this project by tomorrow, but I can't seem to make any progress. I guess I just have to carry on and hope for the best."
- "The traffic was terrible today, but we had to keep moving to get to our meeting on time. We had to carry on despite the delay."
- "I've been trying to lose weight for months now, but it seems like nothing is working. I guess I just have to carry on and keep trying."
- "My friend lost his job recently, but he's still looking for new opportunities. I told him to just carry on and don't give up."
- "I'm feeling really down today, but I know I have a lot of work to do. I guess I just have to carry on and try to find the positives in the situation." The usage of the idiom can vary depending on the context. It can be used as encouragement or motivation, as well as an expression of determination to continue with a task or activity despite difficulties.
Roots and History
The idiom "carry on" has been in use since at least the early 19th century. It originated from the phrase "carry it on," which meant to continue with something even if it was difficult or challenging. The first known uses of the idiom were in literary works such as Charles Dickens' "The Pickwick Papers" and Jane Austen's "Sense and Sensibility." Over time, the meaning of the idiom has remained relatively consistent, but its usage has evolved to reflect changes in language and culture. Today, it is commonly used in everyday conversation as a way to express encouragement or determination.
Synonyms in English
- Persevere
- Keep going
- Stick with it
- Press on
- Continue
Synonyms in other languages
- French: "Perseverer" (perseverer)
- German: "Bewegungsmäßig sein" (to be mobile)
- Spanish: "Continuar" (to continue)
- Italian: "Proseguire" (to continue)
- Japanese: "継続する" (to continue)