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keep on — 2 meanings

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

phrasal verb2 meanings
keep on
continuepersist annoyingly

Meaning 1 · most common

continue

  • keep on -ing verb

To continue doing something, especially in a determined or repeated way.

How oftenCommon
LevelB1
Used inMostly spoken

Examples

Even though it was raining, they kept on playing football.

A: I’m so tired of studying for this exam.
B: I know, but you have to keep on trying if you want to pass.

Common mistake

Not: He kept on to walk.

Say: He kept on walking.

'Keep on' is followed by -ing, not 'to'.

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

Another example

In my opinion, people should keep on learning new skills throughout their lives to stay competitive in the job market.

Tell it apart

Keep on trying — you'll get there.

  • continue / persist

She kept on at me all evening.

  • nagged repeatedly — annoying

Goes with

  • keep on + -ing
Practice saying this
Next meaning: persist annoyingly

Meaning 2

persist annoyingly

  • keep on at sb about sth
  • informal

To repeatedly ask, complain, or talk about something in a way that becomes irritating or tiresome, especially when directed at someone.

How oftenNow and then
LevelC1
Used inMostly spoken

Examples

She kept on at me to tidy my room until I finally gave in.

A: Why does Tom look so annoyed?
B: His boss keeps on at him about being late, even though it only happened once.

Common mistake

Not: She keeps on me to tidy my room.

Say: She keeps on at me to tidy my room.

For the 'nagging' sense, it's 'keep on AT someone'.

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

Another example

Some parents keep on at their children about studying, which can sometimes have the opposite effect and demotivate them.

Tell it apart

She kept on at me about it.

  • nagged repeatedly — annoying

She kept on working.

  • simply continued — neutral

Goes with

  • keep on at + person
Practice saying this
Test yourself: which one is it?

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continuepersist annoyingly