Keeping on Keeping on: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
February 16, 2024

"Keeping on keeping on" means persisting or continuing with one's efforts despite difficulties or challenges. It emphasizes resilience, determination, and the importance of not giving up, even in the face of adversity.

In short:

  • It describes continuing efforts or persistence, especially in difficult circumstances.
  • It emphasizes resilience and determination.

What Does "Keeping On Keeping On" Mean?

The phrase "keeping on keeping on" essentially means to continue doing what you're doing, especially when it's challenging or when progress is slow. It's often used to encourage someone to keep going and not lose heart, even when the going gets tough. The repetition in the phrase underscores the ongoing nature of the effort – it's not just about keeping on once but continuing to do so repeatedly over time.

More about the phrase's meaning:

  • It's a call to maintain one's course or persist in one's efforts.
  • The phrase often implies a positive, upbeat attitude in the face of challenges.
  • It can be used in personal, professional, and various life situations.
  • "Keeping on keeping on" can also suggest a sense of routine or consistency in one’s actions.
  • The phrase is sometimes used to express a sense of resilience and enduring spirit.

Where Does "Keeping On Keeping On" Come From?

The exact origin of the phrase "keeping on keeping on" is not clearly documented, but it has been a part of colloquial English for many years. It reflects a common theme in human experience – the need to persevere through difficult or mundane times. The phrase has been popularized in various cultural expressions, including music, literature, and everyday speech.

10 Examples of "Keeping On Keeping On" in Sentences

To illustrate how this phrase is used, here are ten examples:

  • Even when the project seemed endless, she was committed to keeping on keeping on.
  • In tough times, it's important to just keep on keeping on.
  • She was assigned to the most difficult project, but she was keeping on keeping on.
  • The team's motto during the difficult season was to keep on keeping on.
  • He bet on himself to succeed, and he was keeping on keeping on despite the challenges.
  • After his failure, he picked himself up and kept on keeping on.
  • Keeping on keeping on is essential for long-term success in any field.
  • She didn’t want to make a scene, so she kept on keeping on even though she was hurt.
  • Her perseverance was a true example of keeping on keeping on.
  • They were in dire straits, but they were keeping on keeping on with hope and faith.

Examples of "Keeping On Keeping On" in Pop Culture

This phrase is often found in songs, movies, and literature, conveying themes of perseverance and resilience.

Examples include:

  • Alan Bennett authored "Keeping On Keeping On," a collection that delves into a decade of his diary entries, offering a peek into the author's thoughts and experiences from 2005 to 2015.
  • The song "Keep On" by Lane 8 contains the lyrics: "I've been called / But I'm keeping on, keeping on track," which reflects the artist's message of perseverance and perseverance despite challenges.
  • Curtis Mayfield's song "Keep On Keeping On" from the 1970s is a powerful anthem of resilience and determination.
  • "My Silver Lining" by First Aid Kit includes the line, "Keeping on keeping on is much harder than it looks." This song is known for its lyrical depth and the harmonious blend of the Söderberg sisters' voices.

Synonyms: Other/Different Ways to Say "Keeping On Keeping On"

Other phrases with similar meanings:

  • Persevering
  • Persisting
  • Staying the course
  • Continuing on
  • Enduring
  • Carrying on
  • Pressing on
  • Remaining steadfast

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Keeping On Keeping On":

  • What does "keeping on keeping on" mean?

It means to continue doing something, especially in a challenging situation or when progress is slow.

  • Is it a positive phrase?

Yes, it generally has a positive connotation of resilience and determination.

  • Can it be used in a professional context?

Absolutely, it can apply to perseverance in work or career-related situations.

  • Is this phrase informal?

It is somewhat informal and is more commonly used in conversational language.

  • Does it suggest a long-term effort?

Yes, it often implies a sustained or ongoing effort.

  • Can "keeping on keeping on" apply to personal goals?

Yes, it can be used in relation to personal goals, hobbies, or other non-professional pursuits.

  • Is it similar to "hang in there"?

It shares a similar sentiment of enduring through tough times, though "keeping on keeping on" implies more active effort.

  • Can it be used in motivational speaking?

Yes, it's often used in motivational contexts to encourage continued effort and resilience.

  • Is it associated with any particular culture?

While not specific to any one culture, it is a common phrase in English-speaking cultures.

  • Can this phrase be applied to overcoming adversity?

Definitely. It is often used in the context of overcoming challenges or adversity.

Final Thoughts About "Keeping On Keeping On"

The expression "keeping on keeping on" is a colloquial way of encouraging persistence and continuous effort, particularly in challenging circumstances. It underscores the importance of resilience and the determination to keep moving forward.

To recap:

  • The phrase is typically used to encourage perseverance and sustained effort.
  • It can be applied in various contexts, including personal, professional, and motivational settings.
  • The phrase emphasizes a positive attitude and the importance of not giving up, even when progress is slow, or the situation is difficult.
  • It's a reminder of the value of resilience and the ability to withstand and overcome challenges.

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