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Dictionary.com
Definitions

keep the ball rolling

VERB
continue
Synonyms
STRONGEST
advance carry on carry over endure extend go on last linger maintain persist progress promote pursue reach remain stay survive sustain
STRONG
abide lengthen loiter outlast outlive persevere project prolong rest ride stand uphold
WEAK
draw out forge ahead get on with it hang in keep at keep on keep on truckin' keep up live on make headway move ahead never cease perdure persist in press on push on run on stay on stick at stick to
Antonyms
STRONGEST
cease condemn decrease depart discontinue go halt ignore leave retreat retrogress stop take back
STRONG
abbreviate move quit refuse reject shorten
WEAK
complete desist end finish

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

That could keep the ball rolling for future growth for these companies — or it could pose an existential risk.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 20, 2025

The recent holiday campaign featuring Martha Stewart should keep the ball rolling.

From Barron's • Dec. 2, 2025

And municipalities need to keep the ball rolling on single-use bans.

From Salon • Aug. 17, 2022

When you’re independent, you have to keep the ball rolling and consistently put out music ... and throw yourself out there.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 4, 2015

Towards twelve the guests began to depart, but many choice spirits declared they would keep the ball rolling till dawn.

From The Mandarin's Fan by Hume, Fergus