What are the definitions of “keep at”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Continue with something difficult.
She found the course hard but she KEPT AT it and completed it successfully.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “keep at”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb keep at is to continue doing something difficult or challenging, even when it is hard or takes a long time. It means not giving up and staying persistent.
What are the different verb forms of “keep at”?
| Root Verb | keep at |
| Third Person Singular Present | keeps at |
| Present Participle | keeping at |
| Simple Past | kept at |
| Past Participle | kept at |
Example
If you keep at your studies, you will succeed.
Example
He keeps at his exercise routine every day.
Example
She is keeping at her job search despite the challenges.
Example
They kept at their project until it was finished.
Example
He had kept at his studies and finally graduated.
What kind of phrasal verb is “keep at”?
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.)
Intransitive verb
“keep at” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
She kept at it until she succeeded.
Example
He kept at his work despite the difficulties.
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 at” 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
She kept at it until she succeeded.
Example
He kept at his work despite the difficulties.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “keep at”?
Good things to know
Does “keep at” have an informal or formal tone?
Keep at is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal situations. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, depending on the context.
