Phrasal verb
rock on
Definition
phrasal verb. You use this to tell someone to keep doing something with energy and style. It is a very casual way to show you support what they are doing.
phrasal verb. An intransitive phrasal verb used as an exclamation of encouragement or approval. It functions as a formulaic imperative, often associated with rock music culture or a rebellious, energetic lifestyle.
Examples
“You're doing great, rock on!”
“The crowd cheered as the guitarist finished his solo, shouting for the band to rock on into the night.”
“Though the subculture has evolved, the phrase remains a quintessential marker of a specific era of musical defiance, urging the listener to rock on despite societal pressures.”
Examples
simple
“You're doing great, rock on!”
contextual
“The crowd cheered as the guitarist finished his solo, shouting for the band to rock on into the night.”
complex
“Though the subculture has evolved, the phrase remains a quintessential marker of a specific era of musical defiance, urging the listener to rock on despite societal pressures.”
Usage
This phrase is intransitive and is almost always used as a standalone exclamation or a command.
Teaching tip
Point out that this is often accompanied by the 'sign of the horns' hand gesture and carries a nostalgic, slightly dated feel.
Phrasal verb
Particles
on
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
rock + 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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