A2verb1K

Continue

UK /["/kənˈtɪnjuː/","/kənˈtɪnjuːz/","/kənˈtɪnjuːd/","/kənˈtɪnjuːɪŋ/"]/US /["/kənˈtɪnjuː/","/kənˈtɪnjuːz/","/kənˈtɪnjuːd/","/kənˈtɪnjuːɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to keep existing or happening without stopping

In simple words: To keep doing something without stopping.

Examples

  • Please continue with your presentation after the break.
  • She will continue to study until she graduates.
  • If you continue to practice, you will improve.
  • We will continue working on the project next week.
  • They decided to continue the game despite the rain.

Usage notes

Use 'continue' when talking about ongoing actions or processes. It's neutral, so it's appropriate in most contexts, but can sound too formal in casual conversations. Avoid using in contexts where you're suggesting to start something new.

Grammar pattern

continue + gerund (verb + -ing)

Memory hint

Think 'con-tin-ue' as 'con'ning someone to keep going, like a continuous flow.

Collocations

  • continue doing
  • continue with
  • continue on
  • continue to speak
  • continue until

Synonyms

  • persist
  • keep on
  • carry on
  • proceed
  • stay

Antonyms

  • stop
  • cease
  • halt

Common mistakes

  • 'Continue' followed by a noun instead of a gerund (e.g., 'continue the project' instead of 'continue doing the project')
  • Confusing 'continue' with 'resume' — 'resume' implies starting again after a pause
  • Using 'continue to' followed by an adjective (incorrect) instead of a verb (correct)