keep on course

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'keep on course' is correct and usable in written English.
It is commonly used to express the idea that someone should stay on the same path and remain focused on their goal. For example, "Despite the distractions, we must keep on course if we are to reach our deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Now we've just got to keep on course". Participating in the strategic planning process was one way to help the DAA address concerns about inclusiveness and the Duke community, he says.

Duke University

"I've got to keep on course, keep focused for what's coming next.

The New York Times - Sports

While Celtic's hopes of a clean sweep of domestic trophies are over, Deila is looking for the Scottish Premiership leaders to keep on course for the title against Dundee at Dens Park on Wednesday.

Independent

This makes him speed up at other times, as if trying to keep on course, so that too many aircraft and people come and go as Empire of the Clouds enters its final approach.

The Guardian - Books

Would you be trying to bridge an 18-point gap in a concerted attempt to catch City and restore some of the early season optimism that this could be Spurs' season in the league, or would it be more practical to pin your hopes on overtaking Arsenal and Burnley to keep on course for a Champions League placing and conserve most of your energy for putting up a good show against Juventus in February?

The Guardian - Sport

How do they keep on course?

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

What's worse is that the deficit hasn't been reduced nearly as much as George Osborne intended, meaning if Labour want to keep on-course, the worst cuts are yet to come.

Vice

Arsenal had to be kept on course by him.

The Guardian - Sport

Today's rockets are kept on course at low speeds by the swiveling of the motors.

The New York Times

Racing over specified routes, the driver being kept on course by a navigator between checkpoints, began in 1907 with a Peking-to-Paris race of about 12,000 km.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But it might not matter if Trump keeps on course to secure the 1,237 delegates needed to win the Republican presidential nomination before the July convention in Cleveland.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "keep on course", ensure the context clearly defines the 'course' you are referring to. This could be a project goal, a strategic plan, or a personal objective.

Common error

Avoid using "keep on course" without clearly defining what the 'course' represents. Ambiguity can confuse the reader and diminish the phrase's impact. Be specific about the intended direction or goal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep on course" functions as a directive phrase, commonly used to encourage or advise someone to maintain their current path or strategy. It emphasizes the importance of not deviating from the intended direction, aligning with Ludwig's analysis of its usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science & Research

25%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "keep on course" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to encourage the maintenance of a current path or strategy. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and notes its common application in motivating and reassuring individuals to remain committed to their goals. It sees widespread use across various contexts, including News & Media, Science & Research, and Academia, maintaining a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal settings. To enhance clarity, ensure the 'course' is well-defined, and consider alternatives like "stay the course" or "remain on track" to diversify your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stay the course

This alternative emphasizes perseverance and commitment to the original plan or objective.

remain on track

Focuses on maintaining progress towards a specific goal or objective without deviation.

persevere

Highlights the act of continuing despite difficulties or obstacles.

maintain momentum

Emphasizes the importance of keeping up speed and progress.

stick to the plan

Focuses on adherence to a predetermined strategy or course of action.

hold steady

Suggests maintaining a stable position or direction despite external pressures.

continue as planned

Highlights the importance of moving forward according to the initial schedule and intentions.

press on

Emphasizes the act of moving forward with determination and resolve.

forge ahead

Suggests moving forward boldly and decisively, overcoming obstacles along the way.

stay focused

Highlights the importance of maintaining concentration and attention on the task at hand.

FAQs

How can I use "keep on course" in a sentence?

You can use "keep on course" to encourage someone to stay focused on their goals. For example, "Despite the challenges, we must "keep on course" to achieve our objectives."

What's the difference between "keep on course" and "stay the course"?

"Keep on course" and "stay the course" are very similar, both suggesting to continue as planned. "Stay the course" often implies facing adversity while maintaining direction, whereas "keep on course" can be a more general reminder to maintain focus.

Which is a better phrase to use, "keep on course" or "remain on track"?

Both "keep on course" and "remain on track" are good choices. "Keep on course" might be preferred when referring to a broader plan or strategy, while "remain on track" is suitable for specific tasks or milestones.

What can I say instead of "keep on course"?

Alternatives to "keep on course" include phrases like "continue as planned", "stick to the plan", or "maintain momentum", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.