pressed on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pressed on" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an idiomatic expression meaning "to continue moving forward, usually with difficulty." For example, you could say, "Though the journey was difficult, we pressed on until we arrived at our destination."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"But they pressed on".

The New York Times

Matthew pressed on.

The New York Times

Hewitt pressed on, unabashed.

The New Yorker

Still, modernity pressed on.

The New York Times - Books

Popenoe, undaunted, pressed on.

The New Yorker

Bachmann pressed on.

The Guardian

Mr. Jones pressed on.

The New York Times

Rogan pressed on.

The New Yorker

He pressed on.

Forbes

But his classmate pressed on.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Very lip-pressed-on-lip.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pressed on" to convey a sense of persistence and determination, especially when facing obstacles or resistance. It adds emphasis to the effort made to continue despite challenges.

Common error

Avoid using "pressed on" passively. For example, instead of saying "The decision was pressed on them", say "They pressed on with the decision" to maintain a sense of agency and determination.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pressed on" functions as a phrasal verb, specifically an intransitive one, indicating an action performed by the subject without acting upon a direct object. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "pressed on" is a versatile and commonly used phrasal verb that conveys persistence and determination in the face of challenges. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, primarily in news and media. It is suitable for both formal and informal settings. When using "pressed on", ensure you're emphasizing the effort and resolve to continue despite obstacles. Consider alternatives like "persevered" or "persisted" to add nuanced meaning. Avoid passive constructions to maintain a sense of agency. In summary, "pressed on" is a robust and effective way to communicate continued effort and resilience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

persevered

Implies continued effort and determination despite challenges; focuses on overcoming difficulties.

persisted

Emphasizes steadfastness and refusal to give up, highlighting continued action despite resistance.

continued

Focuses on the uninterrupted nature of an action or effort; neutral in tone, lacking emphasis on difficulty.

pushed forward

Suggests effort and determination in moving ahead, highlighting forward progress against resistance.

carried on

Emphasizes resilience and maintaining progress despite hardships, focusing on endurance.

kept going

Simple and direct, emphasizing the act of not stopping despite difficulties, focusing on momentum.

forged ahead

Suggests a strong and determined movement forward, often through challenging or unexplored territory.

insisted

Highlights a firm and unwavering stance, emphasizing determination in expressing or pursuing something.

maintained

Focuses on upholding or keeping something in a certain state, implying consistency and stability.

proceeded

Emphasizes moving forward in an orderly or structured manner, suggesting a planned or organized progression.

FAQs

How can I use "pressed on" in a sentence?

You can use "pressed on" to indicate continued effort despite difficulty, as in "Despite the setbacks, the team "pressed on" with their research".

What are some alternatives to "pressed on"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "persevered", "persisted", or "continued" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "pressed on" formal or informal?

"Pressed on" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It's commonly used in news articles, literature, and everyday conversation to describe persistent effort.

What does it mean to say someone "pressed on"?

To say someone ""pressed on"" means they continued with a task or journey despite facing challenges, opposition, or setbacks. It implies determination and resilience.