“Keep on Truckin'” Meaning, Origin and Examples

Last updated on October 18, 2024 by Liam Daniel

“Keep on Truckin'” is a popular idiom widely used in every day communication. This reference explains what “Keep on Truckin'” means, how it is used in conversation, and any alternative phrases that convey the same sentiment. We also provide examples of the idiom in different contexts and an image to support the information provided.

Keep on Truckin’ Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

  • The phrase “keep on truckin'” is an informal expression that means to continue moving forward or to persevere despite challenges or difficulties. It conveys a sense of resilience, determination, and a positive attitude in the face of obstacles.
Keep on Truckin' Pin
Keep on Truckin’ – Created by 7ESL

Keep on Truckin’ Meaning

The phrase “keep on truckin'” means to continue moving forward or to persevere despite challenges or difficulties. It conveys a sense of resilience and determination, often in the face of adversity. The expression originated in the 1960s, particularly within the counterculture and trucking communities, and it evokes the image of a truck driver who keeps driving regardless of obstacles.

Examples:

  • “Even though the project is tough, we just have to keep on truckin’ until it’s finished.”
  • “After a rough start to the year, she decided to keep on truckin’ and focus on her goals.”

In essence, it’s an encouraging phrase that emphasizes the importance of persistence and maintaining a positive attitude while facing challenges.

Origin of This Idiomatic Expression

No one is certain exactly when this idiom became widely known. The first time the phrase was heard was in the 1930s in jazz music. However, the phrase did not reach peak popularity until the 1970s. People speculate that this idiom became popular to describe the trucking industry. Cargo trucks are responsible for moving goods every day from place to place across miles and miles and they have no choice but to keep on moving.

Usage of Keep on Truckin’

  • In a motivational context:

“Despite the setbacks in her career, she decided to keep on truckin’ and pursue her dreams.”

  • Talking about facing challenges:

“It’s been a tough semester, but I’m just going to keep on truckin’ and do my best on the finals.”

  • During a casual conversation:

“Life can be hectic, but I just try to keep on truckin’ and enjoy the ride.”

  • In a humorous or light-hearted situation:

“When the car broke down on our road trip, we laughed it off and said, ‘Well, let’s keep on truckin’!’.”

Related Terms to “Keep on Truckin'”

Here are some related terms and phrases to “keep on truckin'” that convey similar meanings of perseverance, resilience, and determination:

  • Keep going – to continue moving forward despite difficulties.
  • Carry on – to persist or continue with a task or effort.
  • Press on – to continue despite challenges or obstacles.
  • Stay the course – to maintain a course of action despite difficulties.
  • Hang in there – to remain persistent in a challenging situation.
  • Keep pushing – to continue striving toward a goal.
  • Stay strong – to maintain strength and resolve in difficult times.
  • Never give up – a phrase encouraging persistence and determination.
  • Soldier on – to continue doing something in a determined way despite difficulties.
  • Keep fighting – to continue striving or resisting challenges.

Other Ways to Say “Keep on Truckin'”

There are many other ways to express the meaning of this idiom. Some of these include: Just keep going, don’t give up, don’t give in and keep moving forward.

List of “Keep on Truckin'” synonyms:

  • Continue
  • Remain
  • Stay
  • Carry forward
  • Get on with it
  • Hang in
  • Keep on
  • Keep the ball rolling
  • Just keep going
  • Don’t give up
  • Never cease
  • Don’t give in
  • Move ahead
  • Run on
  • Keep moving forward

Keep on Truckin’ Examples

Example Statements

In news stories, you may read a statement such as:

  • “Because the show ended late due to being postponed, the band had no choice to keep on truckin’ to their next destination where they were due to play that evening.”

Another example statement could be from a pro sports player after a winning game such as:

  • “The team won today, yes. But we still need to stay focused and keep on truckin’ in order to make it to the playoffs.”

Conversation Examples

Here is an example conversation between two co-workers:

  • Co-Worker 1: I am worried the project will not be done on time.
  • Co-Worker 2: I think we can make it. There is no need to worry.
  • Co-Worker 1: Well, I am glad you’re not worried.
  • Co-Worker 2: Not at all. I think as long as we keep on truckin’ the project will be complete with time to spare.

Here is another example conversation between a father and daughter:

  • Daughter: There is no way I am every going to understand this math concept.
  • Dad: Sure there is. Just study hard and practice.
  • Daughter: I don’t even think that is going to help.
  • Dad: Nonsense! Just keep on truckin’ and you will eventually understand it.
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