What are the definitions of “keep around”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Keep something near you.
I KEEP a dictionary AROUND when I'm doing my homework.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “keep around”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb keep around is to have something nearby or within reach, usually for convenience or easy access. It often refers to items that are useful or important to have close at hand.
What are the different verb forms of “keep around”?
| Root Verb | keep around |
| Third Person Singular Present | keeps around |
| Present Participle | keeping around |
| Simple Past | kept around |
| Past Participle | kept around |
Example
I always keep around a pen and paper for taking notes.
Example
She keeps around a spare phone charger in her bag.
Example
He is keeping around some snacks for when he gets hungry.
Example
They kept around a first aid kit in case of emergencies.
Example
The tools have been kept around for any necessary repairs.
What kind of phrasal verb is “keep around”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“keep around” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
I keep a dictionary around when I'm doing my homework.
Example
She keeps her phone around in case someone calls.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“keep around” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
I keep a dictionary around when I'm doing my homework.
Example
She keeps her phone around in case someone calls.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “keep around”?
Good things to know
Does “keep around” have an informal or formal tone?
Keep around is generally considered neutral to informal in tone. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and casual contexts. However, it can also be used in more formal settings, depending on the specific context.
