Phrasal verb
plow on
Definition
phrasal verb. to keep doing something difficult or boring until it is finished. You use this when you want to show someone is determined to continue.
phrasal verb. to persist with a task or activity in a determined manner, especially despite obstacles, fatigue, or lack of interest. Often used intransitively or with the preposition 'with'.
Examples
“Even though I was tired, I decided to plow on with my homework.”
“Despite the technical glitches during the presentation, the speaker decided to plow on until the end.”
“The administration chose to plow on with the controversial reforms, ignoring the widespread protests and the declining support from their own party members.”
Examples
simple
“Even though I was tired, I decided to plow on with my homework.”
contextual
“Despite the technical glitches during the presentation, the speaker decided to plow on until the end.”
complex
“The administration chose to plow on with the controversial reforms, ignoring the widespread protests and the declining support from their own party members.”
Usage
often used with 'with' when followed by a specific task or project.
Teaching tip
the verb 'plow' refers to a farm tool cutting through heavy soil, which helps students visualize the effort required to move forward.
Pitfall
He plows on the project.
He plows on with the project.
when followed by an object, the preposition 'with' is usually required.
Phrasal verb
Particles
on
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
plow + on
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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