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Phrasal verbs "keep to" vs "keep up"

Differences between keep to and keep up

The main difference between keep to and keep up is that keep to means to stick to a plan, schedule, or promise, while keep up means to maintain a certain level or pace.

Meanings and Definitions: keep to vs keep up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Keep to

  • 1Stay within limits.

    Please KEEP TO the path.

Keep up

  • 1Not let someone go to bed.

    My neighbours KEPT me UP till after 4 am with their loud music last night.

  • 2Maintain a continuous action, persist.

    First I phoned you and left a message that you should phone me; then you phoned and I was out, so you left a message; then...! How long can we KEEP this UP without ever speaking to each other directly?

Usage Examples: keep to, keep up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

keep to

Example

Please keep to the path when walking in the park.

Example

She always keeps to her schedule.

keep up

Example

She tries to keep up with the latest fashion trends.

Example

He keeps up with the news by reading the newspaper every day.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Keep to

adhere to

To follow or stick to a rule, plan, or agreement.

Example

We need to adhere to the project timeline to ensure its success.

stick to

To remain loyal or committed to a decision, belief, or course of action.

Example

She decided to stick to her vegan diet despite the tempting aroma of grilled meat.

abide by

To obey or comply with a law, rule, or request.

Example

All employees must abide by the company's code of conduct to maintain a professional work environment.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Keep up

maintain the pace

To continue at the same speed or level of activity.

Example

He needs to maintain the pace to finish the marathon within his target time.

stay on top of

To remain informed or up-to-date with a task or situation.

Example

She needs to stay on top of her emails to avoid missing important messages.

keep going

To continue doing something despite difficulties or obstacles.

Example

Even though she was tired, she decided to keep going and finish the project before the deadline.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

Differences in keep to vs keep up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: keep to or keep up?

In daily conversation, people use keep up more often than keep to. This is because keep up is used for more daily tasks and routines such as keeping up with work or exercise. Keep to is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about sticking to a plan or schedule. So, while both phrases are used, keep up is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of keep to and keep up

Keep to and keep up 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 to and keep up

The tone of keep to and keep up can differ based on context. Keep to often carries a responsible or disciplined tone when related to following a plan or schedule, while keep up typically has a motivated and determined tone, especially when referring to maintaining a certain level or pace.

keep to & keep up: Synonyms and Antonyms

Keep to

Synonyms

Keep up

Synonyms

Antonyms

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