press on: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "press on" is commonly used in American English and has a straightforward meaning. It is often used in a figurative sense to encourage someone to continue or persevere in their actions or efforts.

One of the earliest instances of the phrase can be found in the works of Sir Walter Scott, a Scottish novelist and poet. In his novel "Rob Roy" published in 1817, a character says, "Press on, brave boys, ...if you break up, we must all be murdered in detail!" Here, the phrase is used as a call to continue moving forward despite challenging circumstances.

The etymology of the idiom is quite literal. The verb "press" in this context means to exert pressure or force in order to advance or overcome obstacles. It is derived from the Latin word "premere," meaning to press, push, or exert force. The phrasal verb "press on" essentially means to apply force or pressure in order to continue moving or progressing.

In its figurative usage, "press on" encourages individuals to keep going despite difficulties, setbacks, or challenges they may encounter. It conveys a sense of determination, resilience, and refusal to give up in the face of adversity. This can apply to various aspects of life, such as personal goals, professional pursuits, or even larger societal issues.

The idiom "press on" is often used in motivational or inspirational contexts, urging individuals to stay focused, stay motivated, and keep working towards their objectives. It can be employed in a wide range of situations, from sports and business to personal relationships and self-improvement endeavors.

Focusing on sports, "press on" can be related to the idiom "keep on". Just like in "press on", "keep on" encourages athletes to keep going and not give up. It motivates them to persevere in their training, push through difficult moments, and continue working towards their athletic goals. Whether facing physical fatigue, mental challenges, or setbacks, athletes are encouraged to "keep on" pressing forward.

In the business world, "press on" can be related to the idiom "keep on trucking". This idiom originated in the 1970s and refers to the determination to keep working hard and making progress. Just like in "press on", "keep on trucking" encourages individuals to stay focused, stay motivated, and keep moving forward in their professional pursuits. It conveys a sense of perseverance, resilience, and the refusal to give up despite challenges or setbacks.

Furthermore, the idiom can also convey a sense of urgency or a call to action. It encourages individuals to be proactive, to not waste time, and to continue making progress towards their desired outcome. It implies that persistence and determination are key elements in achieving success.

However, it is important to note that the idiom does not imply recklessness or blindly forging ahead without considering potential consequences or alternative paths. While "press on" encourages perseverance, it does not negate the need for thoughtful decision-making and adaptability.

The idiom "press on" has a long history of usage and is widely understood in American English. It is a motivational phrase urging individuals to persevere in their actions, efforts, and goals. The idiom conveys a sense of determination, resilience, and refusal to give up in the face of adversity. It encourages individuals to stay focused, stay motivated, and keep working towards their objectives. While it emphasizes persistence, it does not endorse recklessness and acknowledges the need for thoughtful decision-making.