Differences between carry on and carry out
Carry on usually means to continue doing something, especially after a pause or interruption, whereas carry out generally means to complete or perform a task or action.
Meanings and Definitions: carry on vs carry out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
Carry out
- 1Perform a task.
The government is CARRYING OUT test on growing genetically modified crops.
- 2Food bought from a restaurant to take away.
I'm too tired to cook- let's get a CARRY OUT.
Usage Examples: carry on, carry out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
carry out
Example
They plan to carry out the experiment next week.
Example
She carries out her duties with great care.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Carry on
To start doing something again after a pause or interruption.
Example
After the lunch break, the students resumed their class and continued learning.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Carry out
To perform or complete a task or action according to a plan or instructions.
Example
The team needs to execute the marketing strategy to achieve their sales targets.
To complete or accomplish a task or obligation.
Example
He was able to fulfill his promise to help his friend move to a new apartment.
To carry out or perform a specific activity or operation.
Example
The scientists need to conduct experiments to test their hypothesis and gather data.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “carry”
Phrasal Verbs with “on”
Differences in carry on vs carry out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: carry on or carry out?
In daily conversation, people use carry on more often than carry out. This is because carry on is used for more everyday situations such as continuing a conversation or activity. Carry out is not used as much in casual conversations. It's mainly used when we're talking about completing a task or action. So, while both phrases are used, carry on is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of carry on and carry out
Carry on and carry out 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 on and carry out
The tone of carry on and carry out can differ based on context. Carry on often carries a relaxed or informal tone when related to continuing an activity or conversation, while carry out typically has a more focused and serious tone, especially when referring to completing a task or action.