keep firing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keep firing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is instructed to continue shooting or to persist in an action, often in a military or competitive setting. Example: "Despite the enemy's advance, the commander shouted to his troops to keep firing until reinforcements arrived."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

The conservatives keep firing.

The New Yorker

The liberals keep firing.

The New Yorker

But his economic ideas keep firing back.

The Economist

"And I said: 'Keep firing the puck.

The New York Times - Sports

IF YOUR first shots miss the target, keep firing.

The Economist

"The thing he's shown is, he'll keep firing if given the opportunity.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

He keeps firing".

The New York Times - Sports

The rifle kept firing.

The New York Times

But Wilson kept firing.

The New Yorker

They kept firing.

The New York Times - Sports

The Taliban kept firing.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "keep firing" in writing, ensure the context clearly indicates what is being fired, whether it's bullets, ideas, or even questions. Clarity prevents misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "keep firing" metaphorically in situations where the image of gunfire is inappropriate or insensitive. Choose alternative phrases that convey persistence without evoking violence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep firing" functions primarily as an imperative, urging or instructing someone to continue the act of shooting or, metaphorically, to persist in an action. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in both literal and figurative contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Wiki

21%

Sports

12%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "keep firing" is a versatile imperative phrase with a primary meaning related to continuing to shoot, but also commonly used metaphorically to encourage persistence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, notably in News & Media, Wiki, and Sports. When writing, be mindful of the context to avoid insensitive use of the phrase and choose more appropriate alternatives when necessary. The phrase demonstrates strong adherence to grammatical standards and source reliability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

continue shooting

Focuses specifically on the act of shooting, rather than a broader action.

maintain fire

Emphasizes the sustained nature of the shooting action.

sustain the barrage

Implies a continuous and heavy outpouring of projectiles or attacks.

persevere in attacking

Highlights the persistence in carrying out an attack, broader than just firing.

press the attack

Suggests an ongoing offensive action with continued effort.

keep up the assault

Emphasizes the continuation of a vigorous attack.

don't give up shooting

An encouragement to not surrender while firing.

hold your fire

Means to maintain a position, ready to fire but without acting yet.

stay on target

A broader term implying persistence toward a specified goal.

persist relentlessly

Focuses on continuous and unwavering action, lacking the direct implication of 'firing'.

FAQs

How can I use "keep firing" in a sentence?

You can use "keep firing" in a sentence to instruct someone to continue shooting, such as in a military or competitive setting. For example, "Despite the enemy's advance, the commander shouted to his troops to "keep firing" until reinforcements arrived."

What are some alternatives to "keep firing"?

Alternatives to "keep firing" include phrases like "continue shooting", "maintain fire", or "sustain the barrage" depending on the desired nuance.

Is it appropriate to use "keep firing" in a business context?

While "keep firing" is typically associated with literal shooting, it can be used metaphorically in a business context to encourage persistent effort. However, consider the sensitivity of the audience and whether a phrase like "persist relentlessly" might be more suitable.

What's the difference between "keep firing" and "hold your fire"?

"Keep firing" instructs one to continue shooting, while "hold your fire" means to refrain from shooting, typically until a specific target is identified or an order is given. They have opposite meanings.