In English, the verb “keep” is incredibly versatile, forming numerous expressions that enrich our conversations. This blog post explores 20 common expressions using “keep,” offering insights into their meanings and usage. Perfect for English learners, this guide will help you understand and integrate these phrases into your everyday language.
Expressions with Keep
1. Keep up
Meaning: Continue at the same pace.
Example: “She couldn’t keep up.”
2. Keep away
Meaning: Avoid contact or proximity.
Example: “Keep away from the edge.”
3. Keep on
Meaning: Persist in doing something.
Example: “He keeps on trying.”
4. Keep off
Meaning: Avoid, refrain from using.
Example: “Keep off the grass.”
5. Keep out
Meaning: Not enter a place.
Example: “Keep out of the room.”
6. Keep down
Meaning: Suppress, prevent from increasing.
Example: “Keep the noise down.”
7. Keep back
Meaning: Maintain a distance.
Example: “Keep back from the fire.”
8. Keep under
Meaning: Control or subdue something.
Example: “Keep your anger under.”
9. Keep to
Meaning: Stick to a path or plan.
Example: “Keep to the right.”
10. Keep at
Meaning: Persistently work on something.
Example: “Keep at your homework.”
11. Keep in
Meaning: Retain, not express or let out.
Example: “Keep in your complaints.”
12. Keep apart
Meaning: Maintain distance between.
Example: “Keep the dogs apart.”
13. Keep around
Meaning: Maintain nearby; not discard.
Example: “Keep your friends around.”
14. Keep up with
Meaning: Stay at the same level.
Example: “Keep up with the news.”
15. Keep going
Meaning: Continue moving or working.
Example: “Just keep going forward.”
16. Keep to oneself
Meaning: Avoid socializing with others.
Example: “She keeps to herself.”
17. Keep track of
Meaning: Maintain awareness of something.
Example: “Keep track of the keys.”
18. Keep in touch
Meaning: Maintain communication.
Example: “Let’s keep in touch.”
19. Keep in check
Meaning: Control, limit growth or expression.
Example: “Keep emotions in check.”
20. Keep in mind
Meaning: Remember, consider.
Example: “Keep that in mind.”
