kept pressing forward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "kept pressing forward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who continues to move ahead or make progress despite challenges or obstacles. Example: "Despite the setbacks, she kept pressing forward with her plans to launch the new product."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Through a season riddled with inconsistency that showed hints of both brilliance and futility, West Virginia has kept pressing forward.

The New York Times - Sports

Hilburn, on the other hand, kept pressing forward until his retirement from daily journalism in 2005, steadily seeking out new crushes and trying to keep the old flames alive.

The New York Times

In subsequent years, Reich kept pressing forward: in "Drumming," he applied what he called "music as a gradual process" on a symphonic scale; in "Tehillim," he blended his modern language with ancient Hebrew cantillation; and in "Different Trains" and the video operas "The Cave" and "Three Tales" he competed with hip-hop innovators in combining recorded samples with live music.

The New Yorker

Instead of feeling hard done by, they kept pressing forward.

BBC

Scotland kept pressing forward, with Dundee United's Armstrong failing to convert Findlay's header across goal.

BBC

Wales could have been excused for feeling hard done by, but they kept pressing forward and Ramsey had them deservedly level by half-time.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Ireland keep pressing forward.

The Guardian - Sport

No need to keep pressing forward.

The Guardian - Books

You just keep pressing forward and keep believing".

The New York Times - Sports

Even Grimes is sometimes hard to pick out from the mass of singers, who keep pressing forward in formation, like a black-clad, puritan army.

The New Yorker

The predicament Mr. Gore faces in persisting with new legal challenges is that unlike the Republicans, who seem to be in lock step behind Mr. Bush for an all-out fight, many Democrats say they would not have the will to keep pressing forward.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To add impact, follow the phrase with a description of the challenges overcome. For example: "Despite the initial setbacks, the team kept pressing forward, eventually securing the championship."

Common error

Avoid using "kept pressing forward" when a simpler term like "continued" or "proceeded" would suffice. The phrase implies overcoming significant resistance, so reserve it for situations where genuine effort and persistence are involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "kept pressing forward" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating continuous action. It suggests a continued effort or persistence in pursuing a goal, even in the face of obstacles. Ludwig highlights its use in contexts where resilience and determination are key.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "kept pressing forward" is a verb phrase used to describe continuous effort and determination in the face of obstacles. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly appears in News & Media. When writing, remember that alternatives such as "persisted onward" or persevered can offer similar meanings with slight differences in nuance. Use "kept pressing forward" when you specifically want to emphasize the resilience and persistent effort required to overcome challenges. Understanding its proper use and potential alternatives enhances clarity and impact in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

persisted onward

Emphasizes unwavering continuation despite difficulties. It changes the phrasal verb.

persevered

Highlights determination and resilience over time. This is a single-word synonym.

continued to advance

Focuses on making progress without necessarily overcoming obstacles. It is a more formal alternative.

maintained momentum

Suggests keeping up the pace and energy in pursuit of something. It implies existing progress.

remained resolute

Emphasizes firmness of purpose and unwavering commitment. Highlights mental strength.

pushed relentlessly

Stresses forceful and unyielding effort. It indicates intensity and drive.

stayed the course

Suggests sticking to an original plan or intention despite challenges. It has an idiomatic feel.

forged ahead

Implies creating a path or making progress in a challenging environment. It sounds determined.

carried on relentlessly

Focuses on continuing actions without interruption or weakening. It highlights endurance.

endeavored continuously

Highlights sustained effort and dedication. It has a formal tone and stresses commitment.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "kept pressing forward" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "continued to advance", "persevered", or "endeavored continuously". These options offer a similar meaning while maintaining a higher level of formality.

Is there a difference between "kept pressing forward" and "kept moving forward"?

"Kept pressing forward" implies overcoming resistance or challenges while actively working towards a goal. "Kept moving forward", on the other hand, suggests a more general continuation of progress without necessarily encountering significant obstacles.

When is it appropriate to use "kept pressing forward" in writing?

Use "kept pressing forward" when you want to emphasize the persistence and determination of an individual or group in the face of adversity or difficulty. It's especially fitting when describing efforts in competitive or challenging environments.

What are some alternatives to "kept pressing forward" that emphasize strength and determination?

If you want to highlight strength and determination, consider alternatives like "remained resolute", "pushed relentlessly", or "stayed the course". These options emphasize the unwavering commitment and forcefulness of the effort.