soldier on: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Informal
Quick answer
What does “soldier on” mean?
To continue doing something, especially work, in a determined way despite difficulties or weariness.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To continue doing something, especially work, in a determined way despite difficulties or weariness.
To persevere stoically through a demanding, dull, or unpleasant situation without complaining.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. The phrase is common in both varieties. The spelling 'soldier' is consistent.
Connotations
Slightly more common and idiomatic in British English, but fully understood and used in American English.
Frequency
High frequency in UK English; medium-high frequency in US English.
Grammar
How to Use “soldier on” in a Sentence
Intransitive verb. No object required. Often followed by an adverbial (e.g., 'through the meeting', 'despite the setback').Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “soldier on” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Despite the pouring rain, the cricket fans soldered on until the match was called off.
- We've lost our lead designer, but we must soldier on and meet the deadline.
American English
- Even with the software bug, we decided to soldier on and present the demo.
- She had a bad cold but soldered on through her shift at the diner.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used to describe continuing with a project or workload despite setbacks, budget cuts, or low morale. (e.g., 'The team will just have to soldier on without the extra funding.')
Academic
Rare in formal writing. Might appear in informal speech to describe persevering with research or studies.
Everyday
Common for describing continuing with daily chores, a long journey, or work while tired or unwell. (e.g., 'I've got a headache, but I'll soldier on and finish the cleaning.')
Technical
Not used in technical contexts.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “soldier on”
- Using it as a transitive verb (e.g., 'He soldered on the project' – incorrect).
- Confusing spelling with 'solder on' (a metallurgy term).
- Using it for short, easy tasks. It implies sustained effort against resistance.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is not typically used for enjoyable pursuits. It inherently describes persevering through something difficult, tedious, or unpleasant.
It is informal and idiomatic. It is common in speech and informal writing but would be replaced by words like 'persevere' or 'persist' in very formal contexts.
'Carry on' is more neutral, simply meaning to continue. 'Soldier on' adds a layer of meaning: to continue despite hardship, fatigue, or discouragement, with a sense of quiet determination.
Not necessarily. It emphasizes the process of continuing bravely or stoically, not the outcome. One can 'soldier on' and still fail to achieve the final goal.
To continue doing something, especially work, in a determined way despite difficulties or weariness.
Soldier on: in British English it is pronounced /ˌsəʊl.dʒər ˈɒn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌsoʊl.dʒɚ ˈɑːn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Keep a stiff upper lip”
- “Grin and bear it”
- “Stick to one's guns”
- “Bite the bullet”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a tired soldier on a long, forced march, feet aching, but continuing to put one foot in front of the other without complaint.
Conceptual Metaphor
LIFE IS A MILITARY CAMPAIGN / ENDURANCE IS MILITARY DUTY. The difficulties of ordinary life are metaphorically framed as the hardships of a soldier's campaign, where one must display discipline and fortitude.
Practice
Quiz
In which scenario is 'soldier on' MOST appropriately used?