remain on course

USAGE SUMMARY

"remain on course" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
This phrase is typically used to encourage someone to continue working toward a goal or following a plan. For example: "No matter what happens, let's remember to remain on course and finish the project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Djokovic played a nerveless final service game that included one sublime drop volley and finished with a clean backhand winner to remain on course for a third season-ending title.

BBC

No matter – they remain on course to fail once again.

The Guardian - Sport

For now, the two remain on course for another final showdown.

The New York Times - Sports

The result, for the time being, is it will remain on course.

The Economist

But the key trio remain on course to make a probable quarter-final appointment with Ireland in Wellington tomorrow week.

Independent

Even if Barcelona loses Saturday, it will remain on course to win a third consecutive league title.

The New York Times - Sports

His victory means Britain remain on course to take a possible eight gold medals from 10 events inside the velodrome.

The Guardian - Sport

Scott Arfield's second-half winner ensured Burnley remain on course for the second automatic promotion spot after they beat Leeds United 2-1 aTurfrf Moor.

Independent

Bayern remain on course for a treble, leading the Bundesliga by 12 points with five games remaining and drawn against Borussia Dortmund in a German Cup semi-final.

The Guardian - Sport

The company said cost savings coupled with continued investment in digital would help it remain on course to deliver planned profits for the year.

The Guardian

Young England firing England overcame a passionate Tongan side to remain on course for a place in the inaugural Federation Shield.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using "stay the course" as a slightly less formal alternative, especially when encouraging someone to persevere through difficulties.

Common error

Avoid using "remain on course" in very informal contexts. While generally acceptable, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "keep going" or "stick to it" in those situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "remain on course" functions as a verbal phrase, typically used to describe the state of continuing to follow a plan or direction. As Ludwig AI points out, it's considered grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "remain on course" is a versatile and widely used expression that signifies continuing to follow a planned route or strategy. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, predominantly within news and media contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's best suited for professional or formal communications, though can be too formal for very casual conversation. Alternative phrases like "stay the course" or "keep on track" offer similar meanings with slight variations in formality and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stay the course

Emphasizes perseverance and commitment to the original plan or direction. Less formal than the query.

keep on track

Implies maintaining progress and avoiding deviations from the intended path. More informal than the query.

maintain progress

Focuses on the continued advancement towards a goal. Less idiomatic than the query.

proceed as planned

Stresses adherence to the established schedule or blueprint. More formal and less nuanced.

hold steady

Suggests maintaining a stable position or direction despite potential challenges. Implies a defensive posture.

persevere

Highlights the effort and determination required to continue despite difficulties. Focuses on overcoming obstacles.

continue as expected

Emphasizes that events are unfolding according to predictions or expectations. Less dynamic than the query.

stick to the plan

Directly advises following the prearranged strategy. More instructional and less descriptive.

not deviate

Focuses specifically on avoiding changes in direction or methodology. More negative and restrictive.

forge ahead

Implies a strong, proactive approach to continuing forward. More forceful and emphasizes initiative.

FAQs

What does "remain on course" mean?

To "remain on course" means to continue following a planned route or strategy, typically to achieve a specific goal. It suggests consistency and adherence to the original intention.

How can I use "remain on course" in a sentence?

You can use "remain on course" to indicate that someone or something is continuing as planned. For example: "Despite the setbacks, the project "remained on course" for completion."

What's a more formal alternative to "remain on course"?

A more formal alternative could be "proceed as planned" or "adhere to the schedule", depending on the specific context.

Is there a less formal way to say "remain on course"?

Yes, less formal options include "keep on track" or "stay the course", which convey the same idea in a more relaxed tone.