Phrasal verbs "keep at" vs "keep on"

Differences between keep at and keep on

Keep at means to continue doing something persistently, while keep on means to continue doing something repeatedly or continuously.

Meanings and Definitions: keep at vs keep on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Keep at

  • 1Continue with something difficult.

    She found the course hard but she KEPT AT it and completed it successfully.

Keep on

  • 1Continue.

    He KEPT ON trying and succeeded in the end.

Usage Examples: keep at, keep on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

keep at

Example

If you keep at your studies, you will succeed.

Example

He keeps at his exercise routine every day.

keep on

Example

Despite the challenges, she decided to keep on studying.

Example

He keeps on practicing the piano every day.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Keep at

stick with

To continue doing something despite difficulties or challenges.

Example

She decided to stick with her exercise routine even though it was tough at first.

To persist in doing something despite obstacles or setbacks.

Example

He had to persevere through many rejections before finally getting his book published.

hang in there

To continue trying or enduring despite difficulties or challenges.

Example

When things get tough, just remember to hang in there and keep going.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Keep on

To keep doing something without interruption or change.

Example

She decided to continue with her daily yoga practice even when she was busy.

To continue doing something, often with the implication of repetition.

Example

He kept going on about his new car, even though no one was really interested.

To continue doing something, often with the implication of persistence or determination.

Example

Despite the setbacks, they decided to carry on with their plan to start a new business.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “at”

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

Differences in keep at vs keep on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: keep at or keep on?

Both keep at and keep on are commonly used in everyday conversation. However, keep on is slightly more common than keep at.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of keep at and keep on

Both keep at and keep on are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. They are not typically used in formal settings like business or academic contexts.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of keep at and keep on

The tone of keep at and keep on can differ based on context. Keep at often carries a determined or motivated tone when related to persisting at a task or goal, while keep on typically has a repetitive or continuous tone, especially when referring to actions or behaviors.

keep at & keep on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Keep at

Synonyms

Keep on

Antonyms

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