What are the definitions of “press on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Continue with something.
We PRESSED ON to get to our destination before night fell.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “press on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb press on is to continue with something, especially when facing difficulties or challenges. It means to keep going or persist in a task or journey.
What are the different verb forms of “press on”?
| Root Verb | press on |
| Third Person Singular Present | presses on |
| Present Participle | pressing on |
| Simple Past | pressed on |
| Past Participle | pressed on |
Example
Despite the rain, they decided to press on with the picnic.
Example
She presses on with her studies, even when she feels overwhelmed.
Example
He is pressing on with the project, despite the setbacks.
Example
They pressed on through the storm to reach the shelter.
Example
Having pressed on through the difficulties, they finally achieved their goal.
What kind of phrasal verb is “press 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
“press 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
We must press on if we want to finish on time.
Example
She pressed on despite feeling tired.
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 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
We must press on if we want to finish on time.
Example
She pressed on despite feeling tired.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “press on”?
Press on someone/something
To apply pressure or force to someone or something.
Example
She pressed on the wound to stop the bleeding.
Press on with something
To continue doing something, especially when facing difficulties.
Example
Despite the challenges, they decided to press on with the project.
Press on toward(s) something
To continue moving or progressing toward a goal or destination.
Example
The hikers pressed on toward the summit, despite the harsh weather conditions.
Good things to know
Does “press on” have an informal or formal tone?
Press on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is suitable for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “press on”?
Synonyms
Antonyms
- cease
- discontinue
- abandon
- stop
- halt
- give up
- quit
- surrender
