What are the definitions of “keep up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 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?
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “keep up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb keep up is to continue doing something or maintain a certain level of performance. It can be used to describe persisting in an activity, staying informed about something, or maintaining a certain pace or level.
What are the different verb forms of “keep up”?
| Root Verb | keep up |
| Third Person Singular Present | keeps up |
| Present Participle | keeping up |
| Simple Past | kept up |
| Past Participle | kept 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.
Example
They are keeping up their exercise routine during the winter.
Example
Yesterday, she kept up with the group during the hike.
Example
He has kept up his language skills by practicing regularly.
What kind of phrasal verb is “keep up”?
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 up” 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
She kept up her exercise routine.
Example
He kept up with the latest news.
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 up” 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 up her exercise routine.
Example
He kept up with the latest news.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “keep up”?
Keep up appearances
To maintain an outward impression of well-being or normality, even if it is not true.
Example
Despite their financial troubles, they tried to keep up appearances for the sake of their children.
Good things to know
Does “keep up” have an informal or formal tone?
Keep up is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, depending on the specific context.
