1 B2 idiomatic neutral
To continue with a plan or activity despite difficulties, opposition, or slow progress.
"The government decided to plough ahead with the controversial building project."
inseparable
plough ahead
B2 neutral inseparable intransitive
To continue doing something with determination despite difficulties or obstacles.
In plain English
To keep going forward with something even when it's hard or people disagree.
What does "plough ahead" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
For a plough to drive forward through soil.
Actually means
To keep going forward with something even when it's hard or people disagree.
Usage tip
Chiefly British English (spelled 'plow ahead' in American English). The image is of a plough forcing through heavy soil. Common in news and business contexts. Often used with 'with': 'plough ahead with the project.'
Words that pair with "plough ahead"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
plans project reforms despite regardless work
How to conjugate "plough ahead"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
plough ahead
I/you/we/they
3rd person
ploughs ahead
he/she/it
Past simple
ploughed ahead
yesterday
Past participle
ploughed ahead
have + pp
-ing form
ploughing ahead
continuous
Hear "plough ahead" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "plough ahead" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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