Continue: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

Last Updated on
August 2, 2024

1. Continue (verb): To persist in an activity or process.
2. Continue (verb): To remain in existence; to last.

"Continue" often implies maintaining an action or condition without interruption. It's a versatile word commonly used across various contexts, from casual conversations to formal writings, suggesting the action of carrying on or proceeding with something.

"Continue" Definition: What Does "Continue" Mean?

The term "continue" is commonly used to describe the act of persisting in an activity or remaining in existence. In this discussion, we will break down the different interpretations of "continue" and examine its significance across various contexts.

Definition of "Continue": Persist in an Activity

As a verb, "continue" means to persist in an activity or process. This involves carrying on with an action or behavior without interruption or stopping.

Definition of "Continue": Remain in Existence

"Continue" also describes the state of remaining in existence or lasting over time. This usage emphasizes the enduring presence or duration of something.

Parts of Speech

The word "continue" primarily functions as a verb in the English language. It can be adapted into different grammatical forms, such as continuing (present participle) or continued (past participle), but its core function remains as a verb. Sometimes, it can also be found in more technical or formal contexts, used metaphorically or in a less common manner.

How to Pronounce "Continue"?

Correct pronunciation is essential for effective communication, especially with common verbs like "continue." To pronounce "continue," start with the soft "k" sound, which is like the "c" in "cat." The first syllable uses a short "uh" sound, as in "cut," leading to a pronunciation of "kun." The stress is on the second syllable, which begins with a "t," followed by a long "ee" sound, as in "see," making it "tin." The final syllable ends with a "yoo" sound, similar to "you." Putting it all together, it sounds like kon-tin-yoo, with the primary stress on the second syllable, "tin."

Phonetic Pronunciation: /kən-ˈtɪn-yuː/

Synonyms of "Continue": Other Ways to Say "Continue"

Exploring synonyms of "continue" expands how we can express persistence or the act of proceeding.

  • Persist
  • Proceed
  • Maintain
  • Carry on
  • Keep up
  • Resume
  • Extend
  • Prolong

Antonyms of "Continue": Other Ways to Say "Continue"

Antonyms of "continue" provide contrast by indicating stopping or pausing actions.

  • Stop
  • Halt
  • Cease
  • Discontinue
  • End
  • Terminate
  • Conclude

Examples of "Continue" in a Sentence

Let’s look at how "continue" is used in different contexts.

1. They decided to continue the meeting despite the late hour.
2. Please continue to hold while your call is being transferred.
3. The soldiers were ordered to continue their march through the night.
4. If symptoms continue, seek meuidical advice.
5. The teacher asked the students to continue reading chapter four at home.
6. Continue on this road for ten miles until you reach the junction.
7. The series was popular, prompting the network to continue it for another season.
8. He paused to gather his thoughts and then decided to continue.
9. Despite the difficulties, she chose to continue with her plans.
10. The negotiations are set to continue tomorrow at nine.

Frequency of Use

The word "continue" is frequently used in literature and everyday conversation, reflecting its importance in expressing ongoing actions or states.

Variants of "Continue"

Here are some variants of "continue" that you might encounter:

1. Continues: Third person singular present tense.
2. Continuing: Present participle or gerund form.
3. Continued: Simple past tense and past participle.

Related Terms to "Continue"

Understanding related terms helps in grasping the broader usage of "continue":

1. Perseverance
2. Duration
3. Extension
4. Succession
5. Resumption

Etymology: History and Origins of "Continue"

The word "continue" comes from the Middle French continuer, derived from the Latin continuare, meaning 'to join together or connect.' This Latin root is a compound of com- (together) and tenere (to hold).

Derivatives and Compounds of "Continue"

Several derivatives and compounds build on the root word "continue."

Here are a few examples:

1. Continuable: Capable of being continued.
2. Continuation: The act of continuing or the state of being continued.
3. Continuous: Forming an unbroken whole; without interruption.

Common Misspellings of "Continue"

While "air" is a straightforward word, some related terms or phrases might be misspelled.

It's important to avoid these common misspellings:

1. Continu
2. Contine
3. Coninue

10 Idioms Similar to "Continue"

Here are ten idioms that reflect the concept of continuing or persistence:

1. Keep on truckin'
2. Keep the ball rolling
3. Press on
4. Hang in there
5. Stick it out
6. Stay the course
7. Keep at it
8. Hold the line
9. Go the distance
10. Stay on track

10 Common Questions About "Continue"

1. Is "continue" a formal or informal word?

"Continue" is considered neutral and is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

2. Can "continue" be used in both spoken and written English?

Yes, "continue" is widely used in both spoken and written English.

3. Is it correct to use "continue on"?

While "continue on" is often used, especially in spoken English, it is sometimes considered redundant.

4. What is the noun form of "continue"?

The noun form of "continue" is "continuation."

5. Are there any phrases similar to "continue"?

Yes, phrases like "carry on" and "keep going" convey similar meanings.

6. What are some common verbs that can replace "continue"?

"Proceed," "persist," and "maintain" are common alternatives.

7. How do you use "continue" in a sentence?

You can use "continue" to indicate the extension of an action, e.g., "Please continue reading."

8. Can "continue" be used as an imperative?

Yes, "continue" can be used as an imperative, giving a command or instruction.

9. Is "continue" related to "continuous"?

Yes, "continuous" is an adjective derived from the verb "continue," indicating something that is unbroken or ongoing.

10. What is a common error when using "continue"?

A common error is using "continue on" when "continue" alone would suffice.

Conclusion

The verb "continue" means to persist in an activity or process without stopping. It can also describe something that remains in existence or lasts over a period. Learning the definition of "continue" is important because it helps understand instructions and descriptions of ongoing actions or states. Explore other word definitions on the site to expand your vocabulary further.

We encourage you to share this article on Twitter and Facebook. Just click those two links - you'll see why.

It's important to share the news to spread the truth. Most people won't.

U.S Dictionary is the premier dictionary about the English language as used in the United States of America.
Copyright © 2024 - U.S. Dictionary
Privacy Policy
magnifier