Browse all

muddle on

B2 informal inseparable intransitive

In simple words

To keep going even though you're confused and don't really know what you're doing.

Meanings

1 B2 idiomatic informal

rare

To continue doing something in a confused, unplanned way without clear direction.

"The coalition government muddled on despite its internal disagreements."

Grammar: inseparable

Usage notes

Very similar to 'muddle along.' The particle 'on' gives a slight sense of persistence or continuation through time. Used particularly in British English. Often implies resignation or mild criticism of the subject.

Commonly used with

somehow regardless alone years government business

Forms

Base

muddle on

I/you/we/they

3rd person

muddles on

he/she/it

Past simple

muddled on

yesterday

Past participle

muddled on

have + pp

-ing form

muddling on

continuous

Understand "muddle on" better

Try:

Real video examples

Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.

Synonyms

muddle along muddle through plod on carry on press on keep going

Want to master this phrasal verb?

Practice "muddle on" on Looplines