Differences between carry forward and carry on

Carry forward means to continue or make progress with something that has already started, while carry on means to continue doing something without stopping or to behave in a particular way.

Meanings and Definitions: carry forward vs carry on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Carry forward

1Include a figure in a later calculation.
They CARRIED FORWARD their losses to the next financial year.
2Make something progress.
They hope the new management will be able to CARRY the project FORWARD.

Carry on

1Continue.
CARRY ON quietly with your work until the substitute teacher arrives.
2Behave badly.
The children annoyed me by CARRYING ON all morning.

Usage Examples: carry forward, carry on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

carry forward

Example

The company decided to carry forward the unused budget to the next quarter.

Example

She carries forward the remaining vacation days to the next year.

carry on

Example

Please carry on with your work while I step out for a moment.

Example

She carries on studying despite the noise outside.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Carry forward

move ahead

To make progress or advance towards a goal or objective.

Example

Despite the challenges, we need to move ahead with our plans and achieve our targets.

keep up the momentum

To maintain or increase the speed or energy of a process or activity.

Example

We need to keep up the momentum and work hard to finish the project before the deadline.

proceed with

To continue or move forward with a plan or action.

Example

After careful consideration, we decided to proceed with the merger and expand our business operations.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Carry on

keep going

To continue doing something without stopping or giving up.

Example

Even though she was tired, she decided to keep going and finish the marathon.

maintain the status quo

To keep things the way they are and avoid making changes.

Example

The company decided to maintain the status quo and not introduce any new policies this year.

stick to one's guns

To remain firm and resolute in one's beliefs or decisions.

Example

Despite the criticism, he decided to stick to his guns and pursue his dream of becoming an artist.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “carry”

Phrasal Verbs with “forward”

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

Differences in carry forward vs carry on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: carry forward or carry on?

In daily conversation, people use carry on more often than carry forward. This is because carry on is used for more routine activities such as working, studying, or talking. Carry forward is not used as much. It's mainly used in specific contexts such as finance or accounting. So, while both phrases are used, carry on is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of carry forward and carry on

Carry forward and carry on are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of carry forward and carry on

The tone of carry forward and carry on can differ based on context. Carry forward often carries a determined or optimistic tone when related to making progress or achieving goals, while carry on typically has a neutral or positive tone, especially when referring to continuing an activity or behavior.

carry forward & carry on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Carry forward

Synonyms

Antonyms

reverse
retract
withdraw
regress
halt
carry back
move backward

Carry on

Synonyms

Antonyms

stop
cease
halt
discontinue
end
quit
terminate
give up