Differences between keep in and keep out
Keep in means to retain or hold something within a specific place or area, while keep out means to prevent someone or something from entering a particular place or area.
Meanings and Definitions: keep in vs keep out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Keep in
- 1Not allow someone out.
The teacher KEPT the students IN after school because they had misbehaved.
Keep out
- 1Not allow someone to enter.
The police KEPT the demonstrators OUT of the building.
Usage Examples: keep in, keep out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
keep in
Example
The coach keeps the players in the locker room during halftime.
Example
She keeps her dog in the house when it's raining outside.
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 in
To keep or hold onto something.
Example
She decided to retain the old furniture instead of buying new pieces.
To maintain or protect something from damage or decay.
Example
The museum's mission is to preserve historical artifacts for future generations.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Keep out
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 in vs keep out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: keep in or keep out?
In daily conversation, people use keep out more often than keep in. This is because keep out is used for more practical purposes such as security or privacy. Keep in is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about retaining something. So, while both phrases are used, keep out is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of keep in and keep out
Keep in 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 in and keep out
The tone of keep in and keep out can differ based on context. Keep in often carries a protective or possessive tone when related to retaining something, while keep out typically has a defensive or authoritative tone, especially when referring to preventing access to a place or area.
