Definition of Continue
Quick Meaning of Continue
To keep doing something that you started; to not stop doing an activity.
Detailed Definition of Continue
To keep doing something that was started before; to go on without stopping.
How to Pronounce Continue
Stress pattern: oOo (3-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the second syllable: kun-TIN-yoo. The 'u' at the end sounds like 'oo' in 'food'.
Watch out: Some learners say 'CON-tin-yoo' with stress on first syllable, but correct stress is: kun-TIN-yoo.
Origin and Etymology of Continue
Latin: continuare (to join together); from continens (uninterrupted).
How to Use Continue in a Sentence
Each example shows “continue” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“After the break, the students continued studying for their final exams.”
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“Please continue reading the chapter and we will discuss it tomorrow.”
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“Despite the rain, they continued walking along the beach to enjoy the scenery.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Continue
Common Synonyms for Continue
Smart Synonyms for Continue — When to Use Each
- persist
- for continuing despite difficulties or obstacles
- resume
- when starting again after a pause or interruption
- proceed
- for formal contexts when moving forward with an
Antonyms of Continue
Common Collocations with Continue
These phrases pair with “continue” in everyday English:
- continue reading
- continue working
- continue studying
- continue moving forward
- continue this process
Common Mistakes When Using Continue
Even fluent speakers slip up with “continue”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: They continued to studying the same material for hours.
- ✓ Correct: They continued studying the same material for hours.
- Why: After 'continued', use either gerund 'studying' alone or 'to study', not both together.
- ✗ Wrong: The manager asked him continue with the task.
- ✓ Correct: The manager asked him to continue with the task.
- Why: After 'asked', use infinitive 'to continue' with the 'to'.
Other Forms of Continue
- Noun: continuation
- Verb: continue
- Adjective: continuous
- Adverb: continuously
Frequently Asked Questions About Continue
What is the meaning of "Continue"?
To keep doing something that you started; to not stop doing an activity.
How do you pronounce "Continue"?
The IPA is /kənˈtɪnjuː/. Stress the second syllable: kun-TIN-yoo. The 'u' at the end sounds like 'oo' in 'food'.
What part of speech is "Continue"?
"Continue" is a verb at B1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Continue"?
Common synonyms include persist, go on, carry on.
How do you use "Continue" in a sentence?
For example: "After the break, the students continued studying for their final exams."