#1 carry on v. direct the course of; manage or control; "You cannot conduct business like this". wn #2 carry on v. keep or maintain in unaltered condition; cause to remain or last; "preserve the peace in the family"; "continue the family tradition"; "Carry on the old traditions". wn #3 carry on v. continue talking; "I know it's hard," he continued, "but there is no choice"; "carry on--pretend we are not in the room". wn #4 carry on v. misbehave badly; act in a silly or improper way; "The children acted up when they were not bored". wn