kept digging

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "kept digging" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the action of continuing to dig, either literally or metaphorically, often in the context of searching for information or uncovering something. Example: "Despite the challenges, she kept digging until she found the truth behind the mystery."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

Taylor kept digging.

The New Yorker

I kept digging, though.

The New Yorker

Plus, she kept digging".

The New York Times - Style

"We kept digging down.

The New York Times - Sports

And he just kept digging.

The Guardian - Sport

But Wallace-Jones kept digging.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Keep digging.

The New York Times - Food

Dendy keeps digging.

The New Yorker

Keep digging deeper.

The New York Times - Magazine

And keep digging.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

I want to keep digging deeper.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "kept digging" to convey persistence in uncovering information or overcoming obstacles, whether in a literal or metaphorical sense. Ensure the context aligns with the idea of continuous effort.

Common error

Avoid using "kept digging" when the context requires a more nuanced expression of continued effort, such as maintaining a process or sustaining an activity. "Kept digging" implies an active uncovering or investigative endeavor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "kept digging" functions as a verb phrase, typically acting as the predicate of a clause. It indicates a continuous or repeated action in the past. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is used correctly in English. The examples show it describing both literal digging and metaphorical searching.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "kept digging" is a grammatically correct and frequently used verb phrase that conveys the meaning of continuous and persistent effort in uncovering or investigating something. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, as Ludwig AI confirms, it signifies determination and a refusal to give up. While versatile, it's important to ensure it aligns with the intended meaning of active uncovering rather than simply maintaining a process. Alternative phrases, such as "continued to investigate" or "persisted in exploring", can offer nuanced variations depending on the specific situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

continued to investigate

This phrase emphasizes a focus on formal inquiry and examination.

persisted in exploring

This alternative suggests an ongoing exploratory effort, implying discovery.

remained inquisitive

This highlights a sustained state of curiosity and active questioning.

carried on searching

Focuses on the ongoing nature of a search, whether literal or figurative.

persevered in the inquiry

Implies steadfastness and determination in a formal investigation.

pressed onward with research

Emphasizes forward movement and diligent study in a research context.

didn't give up searching

Highlights the tenacity and refusal to quit the pursuit.

maintained the excavation

Specifically related to physical digging, and persistence in doing so.

tenaciously pursued

Stresses a determined and relentless following of a goal or lead.

extended the probe

This indicates a prolonged and methodical investigation, especially in a formal or technical setting.

FAQs

How can I use "kept digging" in a sentence?

You can use "kept digging" to describe a continuous effort to uncover information, literally or figuratively. For example, "The journalist "kept digging" until she found the truth" or "The archaeologists "kept digging" to discover new artifacts".

What's a good alternative to "kept digging"?

Alternatives include "continued to investigate", "persisted in exploring", or "persevered in the inquiry", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "kept digging"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize ongoing effort and determination in uncovering or discovering something, whether it's information, objects, or solutions to a problem.

Is "keeps digging" grammatically different from "kept digging"?

"Keeps digging" is the present tense, indicating an ongoing action, while "kept digging" is the past tense, indicating that the action occurred in the past. Choose the correct tense based on the timing of the action you're describing.