kiːp ɒn
neutral
beginner
- Base verb:
- keep
- Particle:
- on
- Separable:
- Yes
What does "keep on" mean?
- To continue doing something
- To continue employing someone
- To persist despite difficulties
Examples
- She kept on talking even though no one was listening.
- Keep on trying; you'll succeed eventually.
- The company decided to keep on all the temporary workers.
- Why do you keep on asking the same question?
- He kept on walking despite the rain.
How to use it
'Keep on' + verb-ing emphasizes persistence and continuous action. Often used in motivational contexts. 'Keep on keeping on' is an informal expression meaning to persist.
Word order
For continuing action: 'keep on' + verb-ing. For employing: separable ('keep the workers on').
Similar expressions
continue
persist
persevere
carry on
Opposites
stop
quit
give up
Related phrasal verbs
- keep up
To continue doing something at the same rate or level
- keep out
To prevent someone or something from entering
- keep away
To not go near someone or something
- keep off
To not walk on or touch something
- keep up with
To stay at the same level or pace as someone or something
- keep back
To stay at a distance; to not come closer
Use it in a practice answer
Try "keep on" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.