soldier on

B2 neutral inseparable intransitive

In simple words

To keep going even when things are hard or unpleasant, without giving up.

Literal meaning: To continue forward like a soldier — the figurative meaning is directly derived from the military image.

Meanings

1 B2 idiomatic neutral

common

To continue with a task or activity despite pain, difficulty, or lack of motivation.

"Even with a terrible cold, she soldiered on and completed the project on time."

"We shall not flag or fail. We shall go on to the end."
— Winston Churchill, speech to the House of Commons, June 4, 1940 (captures the same spirit as 'soldier on')

Grammar: inseparable

Usage notes

A very British expression, evoking the stoicism associated with soldiers. Often used humorously or with mild self-pity. Can refer to physical discomfort, tedious work, or emotional hardship.

Commonly used with

despite regardless bravely gamely doggedly stoically

Forms

Base

soldier on

I/you/we/they

3rd person

soldiers on

he/she/it

Past simple

soldiered on

yesterday

Past participle

soldiered on

have + pp

-ing form

soldiering on

continuous

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Synonyms

press on carry on persevere plough on push on keep going

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