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continue

A2
verb

Pronunciation

UK

  • /kəntˈɪnjuː/

US

  • /kənˈtɪnju/

Description

To continue means to keep doing something or to resume an activity after a pause. Think of a runner in a race—they continue running even when they get tired! Or imagine reading a really good book; you continue turning the pages, eager to find out what happens next.

Sometimes "continue" simply means to carry on existing. A family tradition might continue for generations, or a peaceful state of affairs can continue undisturbed. You can also continue something from where it left off, like picking up a conversation after being interrupted. It's about keeping the momentum going, whether it's an action, a story, or a way of life.

Examples

  1. 1

    Weather

    The rain continued all afternoon.

  2. 2

    Reading

    After lunch, she continued reading in the garden.

  3. 3

    Persistence

    He was tired, but he continued to work until midnight.

  4. 4

    Conversation

    “I interrupted you, sorry. Please continue.”

    • Phrase

      Please continue

      keep speaking

  5. 5

    Future conversation

    We can continue this conversation tomorrow.

  6. 6

    Moving on

    Let’s continue with the next question.

    • Pattern

      continue with + task/topic

      move on to it or keep working on it

  7. 7

    Route

    The road continues along the river for several miles.

  8. 8

    Economic trend

    Prices continue to rise faster than wages.

  9. 9

    Job role

    She continued as director for another two years.

    • Pattern

      continue as + role

      stay in the same job or role

  10. 10

    Medical advice

    If the pain continues, call your doctor.

Forms and spellings

4 forms open this card.

Main spelling

  • continueverb

Forms

  • continuedpast tenseverb
  • continuesverb
  • continuing-ing formverb