continue operating

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "continue operating" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the ongoing function or activity of a system, business, or process. Example: "Despite the challenges, the company will continue operating to meet customer needs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

In the meantime, Napster will continue operating.

The New York Times

Some homes continue operating despite multiple penalties.

The New York Times - Health

Kodak plans to continue operating normally during bankruptcy.

The New York Times

In character, they start to argue as they continue operating.

The New Yorker

For now, the company can continue operating normally.

The New York Times

Acpo will continue operating until the new body is constituted.

The Guardian

Our office must remain self-supporting to continue operating.

Columbia University

It's common for companies to continue operating under bankruptcy.

MIT Technology Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Yet the rover continues operating in good condition.

The New York Times - Science

Since then many hunts have continued operating within the law.

The Guardian

Numerous ERT employees continued operating an underground broadcast of Greek news through satellite streams.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "continue operating", ensure the subject is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify which system, business, or process is continuing its operation.

Common error

Avoid using "continue operating" in overly passive constructions, which can make the sentence vague. Instead of saying 'It was decided that operations would continue', try 'The company decided to "continue operating"'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "continue operating" functions as a verb phrase indicating the uninterrupted or resumed execution of activities or processes. Ludwig AI examples show it describing businesses, systems, or even internal power supplies that maintain functionality.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Formal & Business

19%

Science

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "continue operating" is a versatile verb phrase used to indicate the ongoing or resumed activity of a business, system, or process. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in neutral to professional contexts such as news reports, business communications, and scientific discussions. While alternatives like "remain in operation" or "keep functioning" exist, "continue operating" often implies a more complex and organized system. Remember to clearly define the subject and avoid overly passive constructions for the most effective use of this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

keep functioning

Focuses on the basic ability to perform a task.

remain in operation

Highlights the state of being active or functional.

stay operational

Similar to 'remain in operation' but may imply a more technical or logistical aspect.

persist in service

Emphasizes continued utility or helpfulness.

go on running

Suggests a smooth, ongoing process without interruption.

carry on working

Suggests an uninterrupted continuation of labor or effort.

hold up activity

Emphasizes the prevention of stopping or halting work.

maintain activity

Focuses on upholding a certain level of action or energy.

retain functionality

Focuses on preserving the ability to perform specific tasks.

sustain performance

Highlights the ability to keep up a specific standard of output.

FAQs

How can I use "continue operating" in a sentence?

You can use "continue operating" to describe the ongoing function of a business, system, or process. For example: "Despite the challenges, the business will "continue operating" to meet customer needs."

What's a formal alternative to "continue operating"?

For a more formal tone, you can use phrases like "remain in operation" or "sustain performance", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say 'continues operating' instead of "continue operating"?

The correct form depends on the subject. Use "continue operating" with plural subjects (e.g., 'They will "continue operating"') and 'continues operating' with singular subjects (e.g., 'The company continues operating').

What's the difference between "continue operating" and "continue functioning"?

"Continue operating" often implies a more complex system or organization is maintaining its activities, while "continue functioning" can refer to a simpler mechanism or process still performing its basic tasks. The terms are often interchangeable, but "continue operating" often implies a business or service.