What are the definitions of “keep off”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Not talk about.
She KEPT OFF the subject of her divorce.
- 2Not tread on something.
KEEP OFF the grass in the park, please.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “keep off”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb keep off is to avoid stepping or walking on something, such as grass or a specific area. It can also mean not discussing or avoiding a particular topic in a conversation.
What are the different verb forms of “keep off”?
| Root Verb | keep off |
| Third Person Singular Present | keeps off |
| Present Participle | keeping off |
| Simple Past | kept off |
| Past Participle | kept off |
Example
Please keep off the freshly painted floor.
Example
He keeps off the grass to protect it from damage.
Example
She is keeping off the subject of her recent breakup.
Example
They kept off the wet pavement after the rain.
Example
The conversation kept off any controversial topics.
What kind of phrasal verb is “keep off”?
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 off” 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
Please keep off the grass.
Example
She kept off the subject of her divorce.
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 off” 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
Please keep off the grass.
Example
She kept off the subject of her divorce.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “keep off”?
Good things to know
Does “keep off” have an informal or formal tone?
Keep off is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as in written instructions or during professional discussions.
