carry on

You can use it alone as a command or with an action. If you use a verb after it, add -ing. For example, carry on talking. You can also use it with with. You might say carry on with your work. It is flexible and fits into most sentences easily. Just don't use it for starting something new. It is only for things already in progress.

Use it when you want someone to keep going. It works great in a meeting when a distraction ends. It is perfect for telling a friend to keep telling a story. You can use it when you are leaving a room. It tells people they don't need to stop because of you. It feels encouraging and steady.

Do not use it if someone is doing something wrong. If your friend is eating your lunch, don't say carry on! Also, avoid it in very tragic moments. It can sound a bit cold if someone is crying. In those cases, take your time is much better. It is for tasks and talk, not for deep grief.

This phrase is a huge part of British identity. You have probably seen the 'Keep Calm and Carry On' posters. They were made during World War II. They were meant to keep people brave during bombings. Now, the phrase represents a 'stiff upper lip.' It means being tough and staying focused. It is a very 'get it done' kind of expression.

In the UK, carry on can also mean making a big fuss. If someone is shouting, a Brit might say 'What is all this carry on?' This is a bit different from the standard meaning. In the US, people might say keep on or continue more often. However, everyone understands carry on thanks to those famous posters!