To continue doing something, especially in a determined or repeated way.
Even though it was raining, they kept on playing football.
A: I’m so tired of studying for this exam. B: I know, but you have to keep on trying if you want to pass.
In my opinion, people should keep on learning new skills throughout their lives to stay competitive in the job market.
Common mistake
✗He kept on to walk.
✓He kept on walking.
'Keep on' is followed by -ing, not 'to'.
Tell it apart
Keep on trying — you'll get there.
continue / persist
She kept on at me all evening.
nagged repeatedly — annoying
Use 'keep on' to talk about continuing an action, especially when it happens again and again or when it’s difficult.Similar to 'carry on' or 'continue', but 'keep on' often suggests persistence or repetition.
To repeatedly ask, complain, or talk about something in a way that becomes irritating or tiresome, especially when directed at someone.
She kept on at me to tidy my room until I finally gave in.
A: Why does Tom look so annoyed? B: His boss keeps on at him about being late, even though it only happened once.
Some parents keep on at their children about studying, which can sometimes have the opposite effect and demotivate them.
Common mistake
✗She keeps on me to tidy my room.
✓She keeps on at me to tidy my room.
For the 'nagging' sense, it's 'keep on AT someone'.
Tell it apart
She kept on at me about it.
nagged repeatedly — annoying
She kept on working.
simply continued — neutral
'Keep on at someone' is informal and often carries a negative connotation, suggesting nagging or bothering someone repeatedly. Use it when you want to express irritation or persistence that is unwelcome.Unlike the basic sense of 'keep on' (to continue doing something), this sense specifically refers to repeatedly bothering or nagging someone, often causing annoyance.