English Reference

Phrasal verb

soldier on

Definition

phrasal verb. to continue doing something difficult or tiring without giving up.

phrasal verb. to persist in an activity or task despite hardship, fatigue, or lack of motivation. Intransitive; the verb functions as a metaphor for military perseverance.

Examples

“I have a cold, but I need to soldier on and finish this report.”

“Even though the team was exhausted and losing the match, they decided to soldier on until the final whistle.”

“Despite the bereavement and the subsequent collapse of his business interests, he managed to soldier on with his charitable work.”

Examples

simple

“I have a cold, but I need to soldier on and finish this report.”

contextual

“Even though the team was exhausted and losing the match, they decided to soldier on until the final whistle.”

complex

“Despite the bereavement and the subsequent collapse of his business interests, he managed to soldier on with his charitable work.”

Usage

usually used without a direct object; often followed by 'with' if an activity is mentioned.

Teaching tip

the military metaphor helps students remember the meaning of 'toughness'; contrast with 'carry on', which is more neutral and lacks the implication of struggle.

Phrasal verb

Particles

on

Separability

inseparable

Pattern

soldier + on

Synonyms

carry onkeep goingperseverepress on

Antonyms

give upquitsurrender

Grammar

Phrasal verbs (introduction)

This entry

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

QR code

englishreference.com/q/soldier-on
English Reference