Synonym Chooser

How does the verb continue differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of continue are abide, endure, last, and persist. While all these words mean "to exist over a period of time or indefinitely," continue applies to a process going on without ending.

the search for peace will continue

When might abide be a better fit than continue?

While the synonyms abide and continue are close in meaning, abide implies stable and constant existing especially as opposed to mutability.

a love that abides through 40 years of marriage

When could endure be used to replace continue?

Although the words endure and continue have much in common, endure adds an implication of resisting destructive forces or agencies.

in spite of everything, her faith endured

When is it sensible to use last instead of continue?

The words last and continue can be used in similar contexts, but last, especially when unqualified, may stress existing beyond what is normal or expected.

buy shoes that will last

In what contexts can persist take the place of continue?

The synonyms persist and continue are sometimes interchangeable, but persist suggests outlasting the normal or appointed time and often connotes obstinacy or doggedness.

the sense of guilt persisted

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of continue Carbon dioxide values continue to rise globally, and climate continues to change, naturally and through these anthropogenic contributions. Marshall Shepherd, Forbes.com, 20 July 2025 Meanwhile, persistent staffing shortages, ballooning caseloads, and generational turnover continue to strain the system, which is exactly the kind of pressure driving attorneys to experiment with AI in the first place. Kaelan Deese, The Washington Examiner, 20 July 2025 Recovery efforts continue, with more than 1,000 local, state, and federal personnel – alongside thousands of volunteers from across the country – combing the area on foot from the river’s headwaters to Canyon Lake. Stephen Sorace, FOXNews.com, 20 July 2025 As the summer season heats up, Sunnybrook Villas continues to prove itself as a premier destination for homebuyers seeking quality, comfort, and low-maintenance living in northwest Olathe. Prime Development, Kansas City Star, 20 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for continue
Recent Examples of Synonyms for continue
Verb
  • As Inter Miami looks to turn the page Saturday night on one of its ugliest losses of the season, Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez remained in their starting lineup against the New York Red Bulls at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, N.J.
    Andre Fernandez, Miami Herald, 20 July 2025
  • This offseason, Diggs remains in recovery after dealing with knee concerns last season.
    Justin Grasso, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 July 2025
Verb
  • The high court action enables the administration to resume work on winding down the department, one of Trump’s biggest campaign promises.
    Mark Sherman, Chicago Tribune, 14 July 2025
  • Since the ruling, the Trump administration has resumed controversial removals.
    Antonio Maria Delgado July 14, Miami Herald, 14 July 2025
Verb
  • The Perseids are also known for their fireballs, which are larger explosions of light and color that persist longer than an average meteor streak, according to NASA.
    Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 14 July 2025
  • Yet despite these promising numbers, the gender wealth gap persists, especially among women of color.
    Alejandra Rojas, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
Verb
  • All the while, in the present day, Sophie is pregnant and preparing to reopen her mom’s hotel after her death.
    Francesca Gariano, People.com, 19 July 2025
  • When are Yellowstone rivers closed to fishing reopening?
    Natalie Neysa Alund, USA Today, 19 July 2025
Verb
  • But this extraordinary seedbed of talent may not last forever.
    Gabriel Snyder, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 July 2025
  • The darker green color typically lasts 2 to 4 weeks.
    Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 23 July 2025
Verb
  • Now the nominations machinery is restarting, and Trump's most controversial judicial nominee is only one step away from the federal bench.
    July 21, NPR, 21 July 2025
  • Reengagement From Qualified Lead: A vetted prospect returns to restart the conversation.
    Ron Browning, Forbes.com, 16 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Continue.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/continue. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

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