Phrasal verbs "keep back" vs "keep out"

Differences between keep back and keep out

Keep back means to hold something or someone in a specific position or to not reveal something, while keep out means to prevent someone or something from entering a particular place.

Meanings and Definitions: keep back vs keep out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Keep back

  • 1Maintain a safe distance.

    The police told the crowd to KEEP BACK from the fire.

Keep out

  • 1Not allow someone to enter.

    The police KEPT the demonstrators OUT of the building.

Usage Examples: keep back, keep out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

keep back

Example

Please keep back from the edge of the cliff.

Example

She keeps back from the aggressive 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 back

To restrain or keep something or someone from moving forward or progressing.

Example

She had to hold back her tears during the emotional scene in the movie.

To hide or keep something secret or out of sight.

Example

He tried to conceal his disappointment when he didn't get the job offer.

To not reveal or share certain information with others.

Example

The company decided to withhold information about the new product until the official launch date.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Keep out

To prevent someone or something from entering a particular place by blocking the entrance.

Example

The security guard was instructed to bar entry to anyone without a valid ID card.

To exclude or prevent someone or something from being involved or included in a particular situation or activity.

Example

She felt left out and ignored when her colleagues shut her out of the team project.

To stay at a distance or avoid coming close to someone or something.

Example

The doctor advised her to keep away from crowded places to avoid catching the flu.

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 back vs keep out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: keep back or keep out?

In daily conversation, people use keep out more often than keep back. This is because keep out is used for more practical situations such as keeping unwanted people or animals away from a specific area. Keep back is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about holding something or someone in a specific position or not revealing something. So, while both phrases are used, keep out is more common in everyday conversation.

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

Keep back 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 back and keep out

The tone of keep back and keep out can differ based on context. Keep back often carries a cautious or secretive tone when related to holding something or someone in a specific position or not revealing something, while keep out typically has a practical and firm tone, especially when referring to preventing someone or something from entering a particular place.

keep back & keep out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Keep back

Synonyms

Antonyms

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