What are the definitions of “soldier on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Continue even when things get difficult.
Life got hard for my dog when he went blind, but he just SOLDIERED ON and never complained.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “soldier on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb soldier on is to continue doing something even when it is difficult or challenging. It means to keep going and not give up, despite facing obstacles or hardships.
What are the different verb forms of “soldier on”?
| Root Verb | soldier on |
| Third Person Singular Present | soldiers on |
| Present Participle | soldiering on |
| Simple Past | soldiered on |
| Past Participle | soldiered on |
Example
Even when the project became difficult, they decided to soldier on.
Example
She soldiers on despite the challenges she faces.
Example
He is soldiering on through the tough times.
Example
They soldiered on and completed the marathon.
Example
He had soldiered on through the difficult situation.
What kind of phrasal verb is “soldier on”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“soldier on” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
She soldiered on despite the challenges.
Example
They soldiered on through the difficult times.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“soldier on” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She soldiered on despite the challenges.
Example
They soldiered on through the difficult times.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “soldier on”?
Good things to know
Does “soldier on” have an informal or formal tone?
Soldier on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as in a work or academic environment.
