Differences between carry on and go on
Carry on usually means to continue doing something that you were already doing, while go on often means to proceed with something new or to describe an event that is happening.
Meanings and Definitions: carry on vs go on
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.
Go on
- 1Continue.
He WENT ON and ON talking and I was so bored.
- 2Happen.
There are loads of people out in the street; what's GOING ON?
- 3Start doing or taking something.
She WENT ON the pill when she met him.
- 4Be guided.
The investigators have no clues to GO ON.
- 5Be nearly a certain period of time.
It's GOING ON ten years since we met.
- 6Progress.
They asked me how the project was GOING ON.
- 7Spend money.
Most of my salary GOES ON my mortgage repayments.
- 8Start working ( electric / electronic equipment ).
The alarm GOES ON when you close the front door.
Usage Examples: carry on, go on 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.
go on
Example
Please go on with your story, I'm listening.
Example
She goes on about her problems all the time.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Carry on
To start doing something again after a break or interruption.
Example
After the lunch break, we need to resume the meeting to discuss the remaining topics.
To continue doing something despite difficulties or opposition.
Example
He had to persist with his training for months before he could run a marathon.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go on
To continue with something that has been planned or started.
Example
We need to proceed with caution since the road ahead is slippery.
To occur or take place.
Example
I heard that a big party is happening at the park tonight.
To keep doing something that has already started.
Example
After the break, we need to continue with the lecture where we left off.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “carry”
Phrasal Verbs with “go”
Phrasal Verbs with “on”
Differences in carry on vs go on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: carry on or go on?
Both carry on and go on are commonly used in everyday conversation. However, carry on is more frequently used in British English, while go on is more common in American English.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of carry on and go on
Both carry on and go on are informal phrases that 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 go on
The tone of carry on and go on can differ based on context. Carry on often carries a neutral or positive tone when referring to continuing an activity, while go on can have a more dramatic or negative tone when describing an event or situation.
