we labored on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we labored on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the act of continuing to work hard on a task or project, often despite difficulties or challenges. Example: "Despite the setbacks we faced, we labored on, determined to complete the project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

We labored on foot up an unrelentingly steep path, pausing only to pant and admire the red cyclamen blooming wild in the forest.

The New York Times - Travel

As the dinners grew larger, the plates more expensive, and the hierarchy of support swelled to the highest levels of government, still, we labored on.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"We labored the last six months on Titanic in the absolute knowledge that the studio would lose $100m.

Wikipedia

"We labored long and hard on this installation, but viewers should not get a sense of that effort from the finished work," Mr. Nawa said.

The New York Times - Arts

"The positives that come out of [something like Satao's death] is that people will say enough is enough, so hopefully we can labor on".

Huffington Post

Workmen labored on dozens of structures on Lethem's outskirts.

The New York Times

Last week, they labored on their latest: Manhattan's warehouse district.

The New York Times - Arts

As Chamberlain labored on Tuesday, and again when he came off the mound, the crowd booed.

The New York Times

For the 12 days he labored on Kinstone in Wisconsin, Mr. McBeth requested $2,000.

The New York Times

Mr. Ye himself labored on a farm for a year, then six years in a factory.

The New York Times

Why has Mr. Ratmansky labored on a dance-unfriendly score and a dance-challenged story?

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we labored on" to emphasize continued effort despite challenges. It's particularly effective when highlighting persistence in the face of adversity.

Common error

While "we labored on" is grammatically correct, avoid overusing it in contemporary writing as it can sound somewhat formal or archaic. Opt for simpler alternatives like "we persevered" or "we kept working" for a more modern tone unless you specifically aim for a more traditional or emphatic style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we labored on" functions as a verb phrase indicating a continued action. It suggests persistence and effort over time. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct, and examples show it used to describe sustained work.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we labored on" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express continued effort and persistence, often in the face of challenges. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is indeed correct and usable in written English. Although its frequency is relatively uncommon, it appears in various contexts, including news, media, science, and wiki sources. For more modern or informal contexts, consider alternatives such as "we persevered" or "we kept working".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we persevered

This alternative emphasizes the act of continuing despite difficulties, focusing on steadfastness and determination.

we pressed on

This suggests moving forward with effort, often against resistance or obstacles, highlighting forward momentum.

we continued working

A direct and simple alternative that focuses on the act of continuing the work without necessarily emphasizing the difficulty involved.

we toiled away

Implies hard work over a sustained period, often with a sense of weariness or difficulty, focusing more on the arduous nature of the work.

we strove forward

Highlights the effort and ambition involved in moving towards a goal, emphasizing aspiration and effort.

we plugged away

Suggests consistent, steady effort over time, especially at a task that is not particularly exciting or easy, focusing on consistent application.

we dedicated ourselves

Emphasizes commitment and focus, suggesting a strong level of personal investment in the work.

we exerted ourselves

Focuses on the expenditure of energy and effort, highlighting the physical or mental exertion involved.

we kept at it

An informal way of saying that we persisted with a task, often used when encouraging someone not to give up.

we gave it our all

Implies putting in maximum effort and energy, often with the implication that the task was challenging and required significant dedication.

FAQs

What does "we labored on" mean?

The phrase "we labored on" means that a group of people continued to work hard on something, often despite facing difficulties or challenges. It emphasizes persistence and dedication to a task.

When is it appropriate to use "we labored on"?

It's appropriate to use "we labored on" when you want to highlight the effort and perseverance involved in completing a task, especially when there were obstacles to overcome. Consider using more common alternatives like "we persevered" or "we continued working" in less formal contexts.

What are some alternatives to "we labored on"?

Some alternatives to "we labored on" include "we persevered", "we continued working", "we pressed on", or "we toiled away". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "we labored on" considered formal or informal?

"We labored on" leans towards the formal side. Simpler and more common phrases like "we kept working" or "we carried on" are generally more suitable for informal contexts.