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Phrasal verbs "keep off" vs "keep out"

Differences between keep off and keep out

Keep off means to avoid stepping or walking on something, while keep out means to prevent someone or something from entering a place.

Meanings and Definitions: keep off vs keep out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Keep off

  • 1Not talk about.

    She KEPT OFF the subject of her divorce.

  • 2Not tread on something.

    KEEP OFF the grass in the park, please.

Keep out

  • 1Not allow someone to enter.

    The police KEPT the demonstrators OUT of the building.

Usage Examples: keep off, keep out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

keep off

Example

Please keep off the freshly painted floor.

Example

He keeps off the grass to protect it from damage.

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 off

stay away from

To avoid going near or being in the vicinity of something or someone.

Example

He was warned to stay away from the dangerous part of town at night.

avoid stepping on

To consciously stay away from stepping on or walking over something.

Example

Please avoid stepping on the freshly painted floor until it dries completely.

steer clear of

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

Example

She decided to steer clear of the party since she knew her ex-boyfriend would be there.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Keep out

bar entry

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

Example

The security guard was instructed to bar entry to anyone without proper identification.

prohibit access

To forbid or restrict someone from entering or using a particular place or resource.

Example

The sign clearly stated that access was prohibited to unauthorized personnel.

exclude from

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

Example

The new policy excludes employees from participating in company-sponsored events outside of work hours.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: keep off or keep out?

Both phrases are commonly used in daily conversation, but keep out is slightly more common. This is because it's used in a wider range of situations, such as keeping people out of a room or building, or keeping animals out of a garden. Keep off is mainly used when talking about avoiding stepping on something, like wet paint or a freshly mowed lawn.

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

Both keep off and keep out are informal phrases that are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. However, 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 off and keep out

The tone of keep off and keep out can differ based on context. Keep off often carries a warning or cautionary tone, while keep out can have a more forceful or authoritative tone.

keep off & keep out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Keep off

Synonyms

Antonyms

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