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carry on — 2 meanings

One phrase, 2 meanings. Learn them one at a time, then test yourself.

phrasal verb2 meanings
carry on
continuebehave emotionally

Meaning 1 · most common

continue

  • carry on with sth

To keep doing something, especially after being interrupted or when it is difficult.

How oftenCommon
LevelB1
Used inMostly spoken

Examples

Even though it started raining, they decided to carry on with the picnic.

A: Should we stop working now?
B: No, let's carry on for another hour.

Common mistake

Not: Just carry on to talk, I'm listening.

Say: Just carry on talking, I'm listening.

'Carry on' takes -ing, not a to-infinitive.

More on “continue”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

In my opinion, it's important to carry on studying even when you feel tired, because persistence leads to success.

Tell it apart

Carry on working — don't let me stop you.

  • continue

They carried out the plan.

  • performed / executed

Goes with

  • carry on + manner
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Next meaning: behave emotionally

Meaning 2

behave emotionally

  • carry on about sth
  • informal

To behave in an uncontrolled, emotional, or foolish way, often by complaining, making a fuss, or showing excessive emotion.

How oftenNow and then
LevelC1
Used inMostly spoken

Examples

She started carrying on about how unfair everything was, even though it was just a minor inconvenience.

A: Why did you leave the meeting so suddenly?
B: I couldn't stand Tom carrying on like that—he was shouting and waving his arms everywhere.

Common mistake

Not: She carried on at the bad news.

Say: She carried on about the bad news. / She made a fuss about it.

In this fussing sense it's 'carry on ABOUT something'; 'carry on' alone just means continue.

More on “behave emotionally”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

While some people may carry on about minor issues in public, others prefer to remain composed and address their concerns privately.

Tell it apart

Stop carrying on like that!

  • making a dramatic fuss

Carry on with your work.

  • continue it — different sense

Goes with

  • carry on (about)
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continuebehave emotionally