# soldier on

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/soldier-on
Updated: 2026-10-23

## Definition

to continue doing something difficult or tiring without giving up.

For teachers: 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.

## Usage notes

- 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.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.