Definition

Verb phrase: 1. To continue functioning or operating; to persist without stopping: Refers to the act of maintaining an activity, state, or process without interruption. 2. To be sufficient to support or sustain someone or something for a period of time: Refers to having enough resources (e.g., money, energy) to allow continuation. 3. To be a regular patron or client; to provide continued support to a business or endeavor: Refers to the act of frequenting or financially supporting something so it can continue to operate.

Usage and Examples

• To continue without stopping:
  • Despite the heavy rain, the marathon runners kept going.
  • The old clock kept going for decades without needing repair.
• To be sufficient for sustenance:
  • This bottle of water should keep us going until we reach the next town.
  • A small snack can keep a child going through the afternoon.
• To provide continued patronage/support:
  • Their loyal customers keep the small bookstore going.
  • A generous grant kept the research project going for another year.

Advanced Usage

• "to keep someone/something going": To provide the necessary support (emotional, financial, physical) for someone or something to continue.
  • Her encouraging words kept me going during a difficult time.
  • Volunteers keep the community garden going.

Variants and Related Words

• Go on (phrasal verb): To continue. ()
• Persevere (verb): To continue in a course of action even in the face of difficulty. ()
• Sustain (verb): To strengthen or support physically or mentally; to cause to continue. ()

Synonyms

• Continue
• Persist
• Endure
• Carry on
• Maintain

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Keep on: To continue doing something. ()
• Keep up: To maintain a pace or standard. ()

Related Idioms

• Keep the ball rolling: To cause an activity to continue without stopping.
  • After the coffee break, the manager gave a quick summary to keep the ball rolling.
• Keep your chin up: An encouragement to remain cheerful and persistent in a difficult situation.
  • I know you're tired, but keep your chin up; we're almost finished.

Verb

1. be a regular customer or client of
   • We patronize this store
   • Our sponsor kept our art studio going for as long as he could
2. suffice for a period between two points
   • This money will keep us going for another year
3. continue uninterrupted
   • The disease will run on unchecked
   • The party kept going until 4 A.M.