press ahead
B2 neutral inseparable intransitive
In simple words
To keep going with your plan even when things are hard or people say you shouldn't.
Literal meaning: Physically pushing your body forward in a direction — extended naturally to mean persistent forward movement toward a goal.
Meanings
1 B2 neutral
To continue resolutely with a plan or activity despite problems, criticism, or delay.
"The government decided to press ahead with the new infrastructure bill despite public protests."
"We will press ahead with the reform programme."
— Tony Blair, House of Commons speech (2005)
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Very common in journalism, politics, and business contexts. Often followed by 'with': 'press ahead with reforms'. Conveys determination and decisiveness. Typically used when there is some obstacle, criticism, or doubt to overcome. Preferred in British English; Americans might more often say 'push ahead' or 'forge ahead'.
Commonly used with
plans reforms project decision schedule development
Forms
Base
press ahead
I/you/we/they
3rd person
presses ahead
he/she/it
Past simple
pressed ahead
yesterday
Past participle
pressed ahead
have + pp
-ing form
pressing ahead
continuous
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Synonyms
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