it carries on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'it carries on' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that a situation or event continues to exist or occur. For example, "Though the pandemic has caused hardships and worries for many, life carries on as normal for some."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Well, it carries on in its zombielike, jargon-ridden way here and there.

The New York Times - Magazine

If it carries on like this, when can we call this one a draw?

The Guardian - Sport

It carries on for company lending, not for property.

Independent

Once spinning - it carries on by itself, independently of motor.

The New Yorker

We are just hoping it carries on with the Olympics," says a Halfords spokesman.

The Guardian

We hope it carries on in a peaceful way for freedom to prevail".

The Guardian - Music

Yet it carries on, attempting, as next week, to reinvent itself a little every decade or so.

The Economist

"We have to make sure it is not a debate just for June, but that it carries on".

The Guardian

"If it carries on like this," says cockney comic Micky Flanagan of his newfound success, "I'm seriously considering signing off".

The Guardian

It carries on far longer than it should, him egging her on as she's pushing him away.

The Guardian - Film

Through soggy leaves and muddy goalmouths and drip-drip damp, it carries on, past Thatcher revolutions and all that cool Britannia froth.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it carries on" to indicate the continuation of an action, process, or state, especially when you want to convey a sense of normalcy or resilience in the face of challenges.

Common error

Avoid using "it carries on" when a more specific verb would better describe the nature of the continuation. For instance, instead of "the business carries on", consider "the business thrives", "the business expands", or "the business struggles" to offer a clearer picture.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it carries on" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating the continuation of an action, state, or process. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It often suggests a sense of persistence or resilience.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

6%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it carries on" is a versatile and commonly used verb phrase that signifies continuation, often with a hint of resilience. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and suitable for various writing styles. Predominantly found in News & Media, this phrase serves to communicate that something is ongoing, even in the face of challenges. While "it carries on" maintains a neutral register, writers should be mindful of more precise verbs that might better capture the specific nature of the continuation. Alternative phrases like "it continues" or "it persists" offer nuanced options depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it continues

Emphasizes the uninterrupted nature of the action or state. This alternative is slightly more formal.

it persists

Highlights the enduring quality despite potential obstacles. This is a slightly stronger term suggesting resilience.

it goes on

A more casual alternative, indicating a simple continuation without specifying intensity.

it proceeds

Suggests a more structured or planned continuation. Appropriate in formal or procedural contexts.

it endures

Implies a long-lasting continuation, often through difficult times.

it maintains

Focuses on preserving a certain state or condition over time. It suggests effort to keep something going.

it sustains

Similar to "maintains", but with a stronger emphasis on providing support or nourishment to continue.

it rolls on

An informal and figurative alternative, evoking a sense of unstoppable momentum.

it holds on

Implies a tenacious grip or effort to prevent something from stopping.

it lives on

Suggests a continuation in memory or legacy, often after a physical end. Has a more metaphorical sense.

FAQs

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

Use "it carries on" to describe the continuation of an event, activity, or state. For instance, "Despite the setbacks, the project "it carries on"". Or you could use this phrase to describe the continuation of someone's legacy.

What are some alternatives to "it carries on"?

Some alternatives to "it carries on" include "it continues", "it persists", or "it goes on", each offering a slightly different nuance of continuation.

Is "it carries on" formal or informal?

"It carries on" is generally considered neutral in tone, suitable for both informal and formal contexts, though more formal alternatives like "it proceeds" might be preferred in highly formal settings.

How does "it carries on" differ from "it continues"?

While both phrases indicate continuation, "it carries on" often implies a sense of perseverance or resilience, whereas "it continues" simply denotes an uninterrupted state or action. "It carries on" can also suggest overcoming obstacles, a nuance not always present in "it continues".