Keep working on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Keep working on" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to encourage someone to continue their efforts on a task or project. Example: "I know it's challenging, but keep working on your presentation; you'll get it done."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Keep working on it, bro," Mr. Lopez says.

The New York Times

"Keep working on this.

Huffington Post

Keep working on it.

Huffington Post

The ones we didn't hit, we'll just keep working on those.

The New York Times - Sports

Sorry, Terry — we'll keep working on it!

The New York Times

So I will keep working on it.

The New York Times

"I'm going to keep working on it.

The New York Times - Sports

But I'll keep working on it".

The New York Times - Arts

"We have to keep working on it".

The New York Times

You have to keep working on it".

The New York Times

"We need to keep working on everything".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Keep working on" to motivate someone to continue their efforts, especially when they're facing challenges or setbacks. It's a versatile phrase applicable in various contexts, from professional projects to personal goals.

Common error

Avoid using "Keep working on" excessively in a single conversation or piece of writing. Vary your language with alternatives like "continue your efforts" or "persist with it" to maintain engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Keep working on" functions as an imperative, primarily used to encourage or urge someone to continue their efforts on a specific task or project. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is a direct and straightforward way to provide motivation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Reference

2%

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "Keep working on" is a common and grammatically correct imperative used to encourage continued effort and persistence. As Ludwig AI indicates, it’s widely applicable across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. While versatile, varying your language with alternatives like "continue your efforts" can enhance communication. This phrase is best used to motivate someone already engaged in a task, reinforcing their commitment and drive.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Keep at it

A more concise and informal version; suitable for casual encouragement.

Carry on working

Equivalent to "keep working", but uses a phrasal verb with 'carry'.

Continue your efforts

Replaces "keep working" with a more formal synonym; suitable for professional settings.

Persist with it

Emphasizes determination and resilience; useful when facing challenges.

Don't give up

Highlights the importance of perseverance; appropriate during tough times.

Keep pushing forward

Suggests overcoming obstacles and making progress.

Stay focused on

Suggests maintaining concentration; helpful when distractions are present.

Maintain your focus on

Similar to stay focused, but with a slightly more formal tone.

Proceed with your work

Politely urges someone to continue their task without interruption.

Endeavour to complete

A more formal and emphatic encouragement to finish a task.

FAQs

How can I use "Keep working on" in a sentence?

Use "Keep working on" to encourage someone to continue their effort on a task. For example: "This is a great start; now, keep working on the details."

What can I say instead of "Keep working on"?

You can use alternatives like "continue your efforts", "persist with it", or "keep at it", depending on the context.

Is "Keep working on" suitable for formal communication?

While generally acceptable, "Keep working on" might be more appropriate for informal settings. In formal contexts, consider alternatives like "continue your efforts" to maintain a professional tone.

When is it best to use "Keep working on"?

It's best to use "Keep working on" when you want to encourage someone who is already engaged in a task or project, especially if they are facing difficulties. It provides a sense of motivation and support.