Explanation of the differences between "continue" and "keep on," including usage, formality, and examples.
"Continue" and "keep on" are both used to talk about doing something without stopping, but they have different nuances and levels of formality. "Continue" is more formal and can be used in writing or speech, while "keep on" is more casual and often used in everyday conversation. "Continue" is usually followed by a verb in the -ing form or a noun, and "keep on" is followed by a verb in the -ing form.
- Continue = more formal, can be used in writing
- Keep on = more casual, used in conversation
- Continue + verb-ing or noun; Keep on + verb-ing
Pronunciation
Understanding the pronunciation differences between "continue" and "keep on" helps with natural speaking.
- Continue: /kənˈtɪn.juː/
- Stressed on the second syllable: tin
- The "u" sounds like "you" (juː)
- Keep on: /kiːp ɒn/ (UK) or /kiːp ɔːn/ (US)
- "Keep" has a long "ee" sound
- "On" is a short, quick syllable
Usage Rules
These rules help you decide when and how to use "continue" and "keep on."
| Rule | Continue | Keep On |
|---|---|---|
| Formality | Formal or neutral | Informal, conversational |
| Followed by | verb-ing or noun | verb-ing |
| Example | Continue reading. / Continue the story. | Keep on reading. |
| Subject | Any subject | Any subject |
| Negative form | do not continue / don't continue | don't keep on |
Meaning Differences
Both mean "to not stop," but the tone and context can change the meaning.
- Continue: neutral statement of extending an action
- "Continue working" (just carry on)
- Keep on: can imply persistence despite difficulty, sometimes has an encouraging or nagging tone
- "Keep on working" (don’t give up)
Examples
Here are some examples to show how each phrase is used in context.
| Continue | Keep On |
|---|---|
| Please continue reading the instructions. | Please keep on reading the instructions. |
| She continued talking despite the noise. | She kept on talking despite the noise. |
| We will continue the meeting after lunch. | We’ll keep on with the meeting after lunch. |
Common Mistakes
Avoid these errors when choosing between "continue" and "keep on."
- Continue + base verb (wrong): *Continue read.
️ Continue + verb-ing: *Continue reading.
- Keep on + noun (wrong): *Keep on the story.
️ Keep on + verb-ing: *Keep on telling the story.
- Mixing formality: Using "keep on" in a formal report sounds odd.
Tips
Remember these tips for using "continue" and "keep on" naturally.
- Use continue in writing or formal situations.
- Use keep on in casual speech, especially when encouraging someone.
- Always follow continue with a verb ending in -ing or a noun.
- Always follow keep on with a verb ending in -ing.
- Pay attention to tone: "keep on" can sound more personal or emotional.
When should you use "continue" instead of "keep on"?
In writing or formal situations.
"Continue" is appropriate in writing and formal speech, while "keep on" is more suitable for informal, spoken contexts.
What nuance can "keep on" add that "continue" usually does not?
It can sound more personal, emotional, or encouraging.
"Keep on" often sounds more personal and can imply encouragement or persistence, which "continue" does not usually convey.
Conclusion
"Continue" and "keep on" both mean to carry on with an action, but choosing the right one depends on formality and tone. "Continue" is your safe, formal choice, while "keep on" adds a friendly, encouraging touch.
Last updated: Thu Jun 12, 2025
