keeps on going

USAGE SUMMARY

"keeps on going" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to refer to something which continues to happen, or when something that has been happening in the past continues to happen in the present. For example, "He had a streak of luck that just kept on going."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"But this thing just keeps on going".

The New York Times

In fine bone china, no less than in person, she just keeps on going.

The New York Times

He just races when they come to him and keeps on going".

The New York Times - Sports

"The economy just keeps on weakening while the financial crisis just keeps on going".

The New York Times

"She just keeps on going where I would have given up long ago, through thick and thin," Mr. Billow said.

The New York Times

It does seem astonishing, but even when you have tramped through acres of studios, the building just keeps on going.

The Guardian - Arts

It does seem astonishing, but even when you have tramped through acres of studios, the building just keeps on going.

The Guardian - Arts

If you look away, Lost just keeps on going.

TechCrunch

Unlike the iPod, it's a sturdy little device that keeps on going until it can't go any longer.

Forbes

It looks like any other vacation home on wheels until it rolls into the water and keeps on going.

Forbes

Said defending men's champion Novak Djokovic, "She keeps on going.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the tone and formality of your writing. While "keeps on going" is generally acceptable in most contexts, more formal situations may benefit from alternatives like "continues incessantly" or "persists relentlessly".

Common error

Avoid using "keeps on going" excessively in formal or academic writing. While grammatically correct, it can sound informal and undermine the seriousness of your message. Opt for more sophisticated synonyms like "continues" or "persists" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "keeps on going" is that of a phrasal verb, acting as the predicate of a clause to indicate continuous action or persistence. It modifies the subject by expressing its ongoing state or activity, consistent with Ludwig's analysis.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

14%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "keeps on going" is a common and generally acceptable phrasal verb that signifies continuous action or persistence, as affirmed by Ludwig. While prevalent in news and media, its informal tone may warrant caution in formal academic or professional settings. Consider alternatives like "continues" or "persists" for enhanced formality. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound, and its frequency underscores its widespread usage. Be mindful of the context to ensure the selected phrase aligns with the intended tone and level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

continues incessantly

This alternative emphasizes the uninterrupted and relentless nature of the action.

persists relentlessly

Highlights the unwavering and determined continuation despite obstacles.

carries on unceasingly

Stresses the uninterrupted nature of the action with a slightly more formal tone.

marches forward steadily

Implies a consistent and unwavering progress, often in the face of challenges.

progresses continuously

Focuses on the uninterrupted advancement or development of something.

sustains momentum

Highlights the maintenance of forward movement or energy.

endures persistently

Emphasizes the ability to last or remain despite difficulties.

never lets up

Indicates a lack of decrease in intensity or effort.

plows ahead tirelessly

Conveys a sense of unwavering and energetic effort.

remains in motion

Simply states that something continues to move or operate.

FAQs

How can I use "keeps on going" in a sentence?

You can use "keeps on going" to describe an action or process that continues without stopping, like in the sentence: "Despite the challenges, the project "keeps on going"".

What are some alternatives to "keeps on going"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "continues", "persists", or "endures". The best choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "keeps going" or "keeps on going"?

Both "keeps going" and "keeps on going" are grammatically correct and often interchangeable. However, "keeps on going" can sometimes emphasize the continuous or relentless nature of the action more strongly. Consider the specific context and desired emphasis.

When should I avoid using "keeps on going"?

In highly formal or academic writing, "keeps on going" might be perceived as too informal. In such contexts, opt for more sophisticated synonyms like "continues unabated" or "persists relentlessly" to maintain a professional tone.