What is continue? Pronunciation and usage in English

continue means . Learn how to pronounce and use continue through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of continue

continueverb

/kənˈtɪnjuː/
Definition & pronunciation of continue

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "continue" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Sounds:

  • con: Pronounced like "kon" – similar to the beginning of “cone”. The "c" is soft, as in a "k" sound.
  • tinue: This is the tricky part! It's pronounced like "tyoo-nyoo" – emphasizing the second syllable.

2. Syllable Breakdown & Emphasis:

The word is broken into two syllables:

  • con (emphasis on the 'con')
  • tinue (emphasis on the 'nyoo')

3. Putting it Together:

Say it slowly: "Kon-tyoo-nyoo"

4. Tips & Nuances:

  • The "t" in "tinue": Don’t emphasize this very strongly. It's a tiny “t” sound.
  • The "ny" sound: This is a palatalized "n" – basically, your tongue touches the roof of your mouth slightly as you say it. It's a nasal sound, like in "onion" or "lynx." (Don't try to force it—it will happen naturally if you focus on the nasal quality.)
  • Flow: Aim for a smooth transition between “kon” and “tyoo-nyoo.”

Resources for Hearing it:

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • Are you a native English speaker, or are you learning the word? (Knowing your level can help me adjust my explanation.)

Usage and examples with the word continue in English

Let's break down how to use the word "continue" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances. Here's a detailed explanation, broken down by usage:

1. Basic Meaning: To Keep Going

  • Core Usage: "Continue" simply means to keep doing something that you were already doing.
    • Example: “Please continue writing the report.” (Keep writing it)
    • Example: “Let’s continue our conversation later.” (Let’s keep talking)
    • Example: “He continued to walk down the street.” (He kept walking)

2. After an Interruption or Pause

  • Picking up where you left off: "Continue" is frequently used after a break.
    • Example: "We paused for lunch, but now we can continue our discussion."
    • Example: "The meeting was briefly adjourned, but the agenda will continue."

3. Continuing a Process or Activity

  • Indicating ongoing action: It can describe a process that’s still in progress.
    • Example: "The rain will continue for the next few hours." (The rain is ongoing)
    • Example: “The patient's recovery will continue to be monitored.” (The recovery process is ongoing)

4. Expressing Persistence or Determination

  • Despite difficulties: "Continue" can show a refusal to give up.
    • Example: “Even though he was tired, he continued to work.” (He didn't stop working)
    • Example: “Despite the challenges, they continued their efforts to save the project.”

5. Formal/Literary Usage - "Continue to" (Often with a verb)

  • Adding a verb after "continue to": This is a slightly more formal way to express that something will keep doing something.
    • Example: “Continue to study hard for the exam.” (Keep studying)
    • Example: “Continue to research the topic further.” (Keep researching)
    • Example: “Continue to work on improving your skills.” (Keep working on it)

6. Phrases Using "Continue"

  • "Continue on": To proceed in a particular direction.
    • Example: "Continue on this road for another five miles."
  • "Continue with": To proceed with a plan or activity.
    • Example: “Let’s continue with the original plan.”
  • "Continue as before": To keep doing things exactly the same way.
    • Example: "I’d like to continue as before, please."

Here's a table summarizing the different ways to use "continue":

Usage Example Meaning
Basic Keeping Going “Continue singing.” Keep singing
After an Interruption “We’ll continue after the break.” Resume where you left off
Ongoing Process “The game will continue tonight.” The action is still happening
Persistence/Determination “He continued to fight for his rights.” Don’t give up
Formal ("continue to") “Continue to learn new languages.” Keep doing something

Tips for Using "Continue" Correctly:

  • Context is key: The meaning of “continue” depends heavily on the situation.
  • Don’t overuse it: While it’s a useful word, too much repetition can sound clunky. Sometimes there are better synonyms (like “keep,” “persist,” “continue on”).

To help me give you more specific advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of sentence are you trying to build with "continue"? (e.g., are you describing an activity, a problem, a situation?)

Synonyms for the word continue

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