carry on
The phrase 'carry on' has versatile uses in English, ranging from continuing an action to managing tasks or even referring to specific behaviors.
Definition
B2General
(common)To continue doing something, especially in spite of difficulties.
Example
- Despite the rain, they decided to carry on with the picnic.
- She carried on working even after everyone else had left.
B2Behavior
(informal)To act in an excited, improper, or foolish manner.
Example
- The children were carrying on and making a lot of noise.
- He always carries on when he doesn't get his way.
C1Business
(formal)To manage or conduct an activity or enterprise.
Example
- She carried on the family business after her father retired.
- They carried on negotiations despite the challenges.
B1Travel
(common)To bring luggage onto an airplane rather than checking it.
Example
- Passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item.
- I prefer to carry on my luggage to avoid waiting at baggage claim.
C1Relationships
(old-fashioned, British English)To have an illicit sexual or flirtatious relationship.
Example
- It was rumored that he was carrying on with his secretary.
- They were found out to be carrying on behind their spouses' backs.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "carry on":
keep ongo oncarry throughcarry upcarry overkeep goingcrack oncarry outkeep upgoing ongo on one's merry wayget on withgo on thenmove onkeep atgo aheadkeep it upcarry forwardplay onmarch onhang onfollow throughfollow ongo one's waymove alonggo alongmove forwardsteady onkeep up withstay onpass onmove aheadgo about one's businesson toroll onplay alongkeep ingo about one's daygo aboutjog onto be continued