What are the definitions of “keep up at”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Continue, not quit.
Learning a language is difficult, but if you KEEP UP AT it, you'll succeed in the end.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “keep up at”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb keep up at is to continue doing something without quitting or giving up. It is often used to encourage someone to persist in their efforts, even when facing challenges or difficulties.
What are the different verb forms of “keep up at”?
| Root Verb | keep up at |
| Third Person Singular Present | keeps up at |
| Present Participle | keeping up at |
| Simple Past | kept up at |
| Past Participle | kept up at |
Example
If you keep up at your studies, you will improve your grades.
Example
She keeps up at her exercise routine, even when she's tired.
Example
He is keeping up at his job search, despite facing many rejections.
Example
They kept up at their efforts to clean the beach, even in the rain.
Example
She had kept up at her piano lessons and eventually became an accomplished musician.
What kind of phrasal verb is “keep up 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 up 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
If you keep up at your studies, you will improve your grades.
Example
She kept up at her exercise routine, even when she was tired.
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 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
If you keep up at your studies, you will improve your grades.
Example
She kept up at her exercise routine, even when she was tired.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “keep up at”?
Keep up appearances
To maintain an outward show of well-being or normality, even when facing difficulties.
Example
Despite their financial troubles, they tried to keep up appearances for the sake of their children.
Good things to know
Does “keep up at” have an informal or formal tone?
Keep up at 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, such as in academic or professional environments.
