ENGLISH
REFERENCE

live on

phrasal verb
Meaning

To continue to exist or endure — in memory, influence, or effect — long after the person or thing it came from is gone.


Origin

A transparent phrasal verb: the particle on carries its sense of continuation, as in carry on, go on, and hold on. To live on is simply to keep living — first literally, of someone who survives a hardship, then figuratively, of the memories, reputations, and traditions that outlast their source.

Examples
SIMPLE

His music will live on for many years.

CONTEXTUAL

Even though the old library is closing, the stories inside will live on in the memories of the community.

COMPLEX

Though the great leader has passed away, his vision for a peaceful society continues to live on through the work of his students.

Last updated July 28, 2026