keeps buggering on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keeps buggering on" is correct and usable in written English, though it is informal and may be considered vulgar in some contexts.
You can use it to express persistence or determination in continuing with a task or situation despite difficulties or challenges. Example: "Even after facing numerous setbacks, she just keeps buggering on, refusing to give up on her dreams."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

He keeps buggering on.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Gatiss included one of Churchill's favourite expressions "Keep buggering on" (abbreviated KBO) into the script, which he was "delighted" to do.

Wikipedia

— Keep Buggering On.

The New York Times - Books

Not "keep buggering on".

The Guardian - Opinion

Keep buggering on (Winston Churchill's words).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The key to celebrity redemption is the display of not-too-abject contrition, preferably to a chatshow host, mixed with regular work, balls of steel, and Winston Churchill's motto – KBO, "Keep Buggering On".

The Guardian - Sport

A shame they changed the name, from KBO: The Churchill Secret, when KBO (Keep Buggering On – in a Churchillian kind of way) is so much a part of it.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

I bet her life didn't turn out like she expected, any more than Bridget's – and I hope that, like Bridget, she will be managing to keep buggering on, play with the cards she is dealt, and laughing with her friends, who will tell her that she's absolutely fine – just as she is.

The Guardian - Books

Just keep buggering on!" I instantly warm to him.

Vice

Now we can argue as to whether or not it's more difficult to liveblog a tennis match or maintain one's equilibrium during MEET THE PRESS, but Brooks is nevertheless an example of those classic Churchillian values that say when the going is hard you should just Keep Buggering On.

Huffington Post

I'm not quite sure why that's the case, but if you don't have a Wear OS watch, you'll just have to figure out some other way to keep calm and bugger on.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "keeps buggering on" to inject a dose of irreverent humor and emphasize relentless persistence, especially in informal contexts or when describing someone overcoming significant obstacles with a can-do attitude.

Common error

Avoid using "keeps buggering on" in formal writing or professional settings; its informal and potentially offensive nature can undermine your credibility and damage your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keeps buggering on" functions as a verbal phrase indicating continuous action despite difficulty. As Ludwig AI reports, this phrase expresses persistence. The examples show its use in describing someone's determination to continue despite setbacks.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

17%

Lifestyle

8%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "keeps buggering on" is an informal phrase that means to continue doing something despite difficulties. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability in written English while noting its potential vulgarity. It's most commonly found in news and media contexts and is best used in informal settings. When a more formal tone is needed, alternatives like "persists relentlessly" or "continues doggedly" are more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

carries on regardless

This option maintains a similar level of informality while stressing the indifference to obstacles.

keeps pushing forward

A more straightforward and less colorful way to express continued effort, suitable for many contexts.

continues doggedly

This alternative underscores the tenacious and determined quality of the continuation, emphasizing the difficulty faced.

persists relentlessly

This alternative replaces the informal "buggering on" with a more formal and intense term, making it suitable for professional or academic contexts.

remains determined

Highlights the unwavering resolve rather than the act of continuing itself.

sticks to it tenaciously

Implies a firm adherence to a task or goal, emphasizing the difficulty of letting go.

soldiers on bravely

This suggests that someone continues fighting or working hard despite difficult circumstances. It adds a layer of bravery to the persistence.

perseveres steadfastly

This phrase uses a more formal and positive tone, highlighting the unwavering nature of the effort.

endures persistently

Focuses on the ability to withstand hardship while maintaining forward motion.

plods on relentlessly

Replaces "buggering on" with the term "plods on", which suggests a slow and possibly difficult advancement.

FAQs

What does "keeps buggering on" mean?

It means to continue doing something despite difficulties or challenges, often with a sense of determination and irreverence.

When is it appropriate to use "keeps buggering on"?

It's appropriate in informal settings among close friends or when the context calls for a humorous or rebellious tone. Avoid using it in formal or professional contexts.

What can I say instead of "keeps buggering on" if I want to be more formal?

You can use alternatives like "persists relentlessly", "perseveres steadfastly", or "continues doggedly".

Is "keeps buggering on" considered offensive?

Yes, the term "buggering" can be considered offensive by some, so use caution and consider your audience before using the phrase.