Carry it on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Carry it on" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to indicate the continuation of an action or task. Example: "Despite the challenges, we need to carry it on." Alternative expressions include "Keep it going" and "Continue it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"She hoped you might be the one to carry it on," he is told.

Los Angeles Times

"I was kind of hoping my son might want to carry it on," he said.

The New York Times

Carry It On 11.

Huffington Post

Once they went, you realise you and the people around you are the ones who have to carry it on.

Independent

America has a proud tradition of state rhetoric, and its Presidents are expected to carry it on, especially in moments of national danger.

Forbes

We'll carry it on".

The Guardian

Could you carry it on your belt?

The New York Times

"That I was the right person to carry it on".

The New York Times - Sports

"Birds carry it on their feet," Mr. LaVigne said.

The New York Times

RED BANK Two River Theater "Carry It On," a musical memoir with Maureen McGovern.

The New York Times

"We are Juliano's students, the only people who know his message and can carry it on".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Carry it on", ensure that the context clearly indicates what "it" refers to. Ambiguity can confuse the reader. For example, instead of "The tradition is important, so we must carry it on", specify: "The tradition of annual community gatherings is important, so we must carry it on."

Common error

Avoid using "Carry it on" without a clear understanding of the task or responsibility it entails. Without proper knowledge, the effort might be misdirected or ineffective. Ensure you fully grasp the objectives before attempting to "carry it on".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "Carry it on" is that of a phrasal verb. It acts as a verb phrase indicating the continuation of an action, task, or tradition. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correct and usable form in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "Carry it on" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote the continuation of an action, task, or tradition. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. As Ludwig examples show, it's found predominantly in news and media contexts. When using "Carry it on", clarity is crucial; make sure the referent is unmistakable. Alternatives like "continue it" or "sustain it" offer more formal options, but overall, "Carry it on" remains a versatile phrase suitable for a wide range of communication needs. The usage is consistent across different domains, with a strong emphasis on maintaining momentum or preserving a legacy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Continue it

Direct synonym focusing on the act of continuing.

Proceed with it

Focuses on moving forward with something already started.

Keep it going

Emphasizes maintaining momentum or activity.

Persevere with it

Highlights the effort to overcome obstacles and continue.

Maintain it

Stresses the importance of keeping something at its current state or level.

Take it forward

Implies advancing or progressing something to the next stage.

Uphold it

Focuses on maintaining a tradition, principle, or standard.

Sustain it

Highlights the ability to keep something going over a long period.

Extend it

Implies making something last longer or reach further.

Keep up with it

Focuses on keeping pace and not falling behind while continuing an activity.

FAQs

How can I use "Carry it on" in a sentence?

You can use "Carry it on" to suggest continuing a task or tradition. For instance, "Despite the challenges, we must "carry it on"." It implies a continuation of something that already exists.

What is a more formal alternative to "Carry it on"?

A more formal alternative to "Carry it on" would be "continue it" or "sustain it". These options are suitable for professional or academic settings.

Is "Carry it on" grammatically correct?

Yes, "Carry it on" is grammatically correct as it is a phrasal verb used to indicate the continuation of something. The phrase follows standard English grammar rules, and its usage is widely accepted.

What does it mean to "Carry it on"?

To "Carry it on" means to continue or proceed with a task, tradition, or activity. It often implies taking over from someone else or ensuring something continues into the future. You might also "keep it going".