What are the definitions of “press ahead”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Continue with something.
They PRESSED AHEAD with the elections despite the violence.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “press ahead”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb press ahead is to continue with something, especially in difficult situations or when facing obstacles. It means to keep moving forward or making progress.
What are the different verb forms of “press ahead”?
| Root Verb | press ahead |
| Third Person Singular Present | presses ahead |
| Present Participle | pressing ahead |
| Simple Past | pressed ahead |
| Past Participle | pressed ahead |
Example
Despite the challenges, the team decided to press ahead with the project.
Example
She presses ahead with her studies, even though it's difficult.
Example
They are pressing ahead with the construction, despite the bad weather.
Example
He pressed ahead with his plans, even though his friends advised against it.
Example
The company pressed ahead with the product launch, despite the setbacks.
What kind of phrasal verb is “press ahead”?
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
“press ahead” 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
The government pressed ahead with the new policy.
Example
She pressed ahead with her plans, despite the opposition.
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
“press ahead” 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
The government pressed ahead with the new policy.
Example
She pressed ahead with her plans, despite the opposition.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “press ahead”?
Press ahead with something
To continue doing something, especially when facing difficulties or opposition.
Example
The company decided to press ahead with the new marketing campaign, even though it was risky.
Press ahead with determination
To continue doing something with a strong sense of purpose and commitment.
Example
She pressed ahead with determination, refusing to give up on her dreams.
Press ahead with confidence
To continue doing something with a strong belief in one's abilities or the success of the task.
Example
He pressed ahead with confidence, knowing that he had the skills to succeed.
Good things to know
Does “press ahead” have an informal or formal tone?
Press ahead 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 business meetings or academic discussions.
