Phrasal verb
keep on
Meanings
to continue doing something; not stop
to do something repeatedly or persistently, often in an annoying way
Definition
To keep on means to continue doing something without stopping.
Keep on is a phrasal verb meaning to continue an action or activity. It is often used to encourage someone not to stop, or to describe something that happens again and again. It can be followed by a verb ending in -ing (keep on talking) or by a noun (keep on the lights).
Examples
- I kept on working until the report was finished.
- You keep on forgetting where you put your keys.
- He kept on talking even after everyone else went quiet.
- She kept on practicing the piano every evening.
- They kept on asking questions during the presentation.
Common mistake
Learners often say "keep doing" but forget that "keep on" is also correct and commonly followed by an -ing form (e.g., "keep on studying").
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.