What is keep? How to use in English

Okay, let's break down how to use the word "keep" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with lots of different meanings and ways to use it. Here's a breakdown, categorized for clarity:

1. Maintaining Something (Most Common)

• To continue doing something: This is probably the most frequent use.

  • "Keep going!" (Continue trying)
  • "Keep practicing your French." (Continue practicing)
  • "Keep the faith." (Continue to have hope)

• To retain something: To not lose or let go of something.

  • "Keep your promise." (Don't break your promise)
  • "Keep your cool." (Don't get angry)
  • "Keep your mouth shut." (Don't talk)

• To protect something: To shield something from harm or loss.

  • "Keep it safe." (Protect it)
  • "Keep him out of trouble." (Protect him)

2. Holding or Storing

• To hold something physically:

  • "Keep the door closed." (Hold it shut)
  • "Keep your hands to yourself." (Hold your hands together)
  • "Keep the change." (Retain the small amount of money)

• To store something:

  • "Keep your books in the bookshelf." (Store them)
  • “Keep some food in the fridge.” (Store some food)

3. Continuing to Have Something

• To continue to possess:

  • "Keep your money." (Don’t spend it)
  • "Keep your secrets." (Don’t reveal them)

• To continue to be in a state:

  • “Keep calm.” (Remain calm)
  • “Keep quiet.” (Remain silent)

4. Phrases with "Keep"

• Keep in touch: To stay in contact with someone. “Let’s keep in touch!”
• Keep up with: To stay informed about or follow a trend/pace. “Keep up with the latest news.” “Keep up with the demands of the job.”
• Keep on: (Often used with "going") - To continue. "Keep on going, you're almost there!"
• Keep back: To restrain or hold something in. “Keep back your criticism until I’m ready to hear it.”
• Keep up: (as a verb) - To maintain a certain speed or level. ("Keep up the pace!")

5. "Keep" as a Verb Particle (with a noun)

This is a more formal usage, often found in business and legal contexts. It means "to maintain" or "to preserve" something.

• “Keep a record” (Maintain a record)
• “Keep a contract” (Preserve the contract)

Important Notes and Variations:

• "Keep" vs. "Preserve": While related, “preserve” often implies a greater effort to protect something from harm or decay. "Keep" is more general.

• "Keep away": This means "do not approach" or "do not touch." (e.g., "Keep away from the edge!")

• "Keep from": Means to prevent someone from doing something. (“Keep him from going.”)

Let’s Practice!

Could you give me a sentence using "keep" in one of these ways? Or, if you want, tell me a situation and I’ll help you figure out the best way to use "keep" in that context.