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Phrasal verbs "keep away" vs "keep out"

Differences between keep away and keep out

Keep away usually means to stay at a distance from someone or something, often to avoid danger or harm. Keep out generally means to not enter a particular place or area.

Meanings and Definitions: keep away vs keep out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Keep away

  • 1Don't allow someone near something.

    Medicines should always be KEPT AWAY from children.

Keep out

  • 1Not allow someone to enter.

    The police KEPT the demonstrators OUT of the building.

Usage Examples: keep away, keep out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

keep away

Example

Please keep away from the construction site.

Example

She keeps away from the busy streets when walking her dog.

keep out

Example

Please keep out of the construction zone for your safety.

Example

The fence keeps out wild animals from the garden.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Keep away

stay clear of

To avoid or keep a safe distance from someone or something.

Example

She always stays clear of the park at night because it's not safe.

steer clear of

To avoid or stay away from someone or something that may be harmful or unpleasant.

Example

He decided to steer clear of his ex-girlfriend's party to avoid any drama.

keep at bay

To prevent or hold off something or someone that may cause harm or trouble.

Example

The medicine helped keep the flu at bay and she didn't get sick.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Keep out

bar entry

To prevent or block someone from entering a particular place or area.

Example

The security guard barred entry to the building after hours.

prohibit access

To forbid or prevent someone from accessing a particular place or resource.

Example

The sign clearly stated that access was prohibited beyond this point.

forbid entry

To prohibit or disallow someone from entering a particular place or area.

Example

The club forbids entry to anyone under 21 years old.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “keep”

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

Differences in keep away vs keep out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: keep away or keep out?

In daily conversation, people use keep out more often than keep away. This is because keep out is used for more common situations such as keeping unwanted visitors out of a room or building. Keep away is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about avoiding danger or harm. So, while both phrases are used, keep out is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of keep away and keep out

Keep away and keep out are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of keep away and keep out

The tone of keep away and keep out can differ based on context. Keep away often carries a warning or protective tone when related to avoiding danger or harm, while keep out typically has a practical and authoritative tone, especially when referring to restricted areas or access.

keep away & keep out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Keep away

Synonyms

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