keep on operating

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keep on operating" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the continuation of a process, system, or machine functioning without interruption. Example: "Despite the challenges, the factory will keep on operating to meet production demands."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

SAC itself has pleaded not guilty and pledged to keep on operating as before.

The Economist

On the other hand, most owners of water licenses wouldn't sell, but would rather keep on operating the old inefficient way.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

This proved, the experimental apparatus keeps on operating, though, repeating the same results with dwindling verve and testing the inner Buddhist in Jin's audience in ways that some may find calming and others sedating.

The New York Times - Books

Even so, the operating system will keep on giving for some time.

The Economist

Keep records on operating procedure and create a business succession plan.

WikiHow

The banks just kept on lending to keep Hanwha operating.

Forbes

Ryanair, the Irish airline that has come to symbolize the rapid growth of low-cost European travel, said on Monday that it was considering easing back on a decade-long expansion as it struggles to keep a lid on operating costs while maintaining its rock-bottom fares.

The New York Times

PARIS — Ryanair, the Irish airline that has come to symbolize the rapid growth of low-cost European travel, said Monday that it was considering easing back on a decade-long expansion as it struggles to keep a lid on operating costs while maintaining its rock-bottom fares.

The New York Times

Fortunately, many devices these days are universal, thus obviating for regular overseas travelers the need to have two laptops, two PDAs and two cell phones, and consolidating the expensive and easily misplaced accessories, such as chargers and charge converters, one needs to keep everything operating on full battery power.

Forbes

In essence, they aim to take control of the sick bank and keep it operating while inflicting losses on its shareholders and, if necessary, its creditors.

The New York Times

Normally the world's biggest retailer is known for giving its non-unionised employees short shrift on benefits, which helps keep its operating costs low and prices cheap.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "keep on operating" when you want to emphasize the continuous and uninterrupted nature of an activity or function. This phrase often implies persistence despite potential difficulties.

Common error

While "keep on operating" is widely understood, it can sound slightly informal in certain professional settings. Consider alternatives like "continue to operate" or "remain operational" for a more polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep on operating" functions as a phrasal verb, indicating the continuation of an action or process. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a usable and understandable expression in English. It emphasizes that something is not stopping or ceasing its activity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "keep on operating" is a common and generally acceptable phrasal verb that means to continue functioning or running. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is correct and usable in written English. While its register is mostly neutral, consider more formal alternatives like "continue to operate" in academic or highly professional settings. The phrase is frequently used in news and media to describe businesses, systems, and governments that persist in their functions. When writing, use "keep on operating" to emphasize the continuous nature of an activity, especially when challenges are involved.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

carry on operating

Similar to the original phrase, but with a slightly different emphasis on continuation.

continue to operate

More formal alternative, emphasizing the continuation of activity.

keep functioning

Focuses on the act of functioning without interruption.

remain operational

Focuses on the state of being capable of operating.

stay in operation

Highlights the persistence of the operating state.

maintain functionality

Emphasizes the preservation of operational capabilities.

sustain operations

Indicates an effort to support and prolong the operating state.

proceed with operations

Suggests a decision to continue despite potential obstacles.

persevere in operating

Implies facing challenges while maintaining operation.

endure in service

Highlights the durability and prolonged use of something.

FAQs

What does "keep on operating" mean?

The phrase "keep on operating" means to continue functioning or running without stopping. It suggests the persistence of a process, system, or machine in its intended activity.

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

You can use "keep on operating" in a sentence like this: "Despite the economic downturn, the factory will "keep on operating" to meet production demands."

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

You can use alternatives like "continue to operate", "remain operational", or "stay in operation" depending on the context.

Is "keep on operating" formal or informal?

"Keep on operating" is generally considered neutral but can sometimes lean towards informal. In very formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "continue to operate".