What does the phrasal verb “keep up with” mean?

What are the definitions of “keep up with”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Move at the same rate.

  He walks too fast and it's really hard to KEEP UP WITH him.

• 2. Stay up to date.

  It's hard to KEEP UP WITH all the latest improvements and breakthroughs in technology nowadays.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “keep up with”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb keep up with is to move at the same rate as someone or something else, or to stay up to date with information or changes. For example, it can mean trying to walk as fast as someone else or staying informed about the latest news.

What are the different verb forms of “keep up with”?

Root Verb	keep up with
Third Person Singular Present	keeps up with
Present Participle	keeping up with
Simple Past	kept up with
Past Participle	kept up with

Example

I try to keep up with the latest news every day.

Example

She keeps up with her favorite TV shows every week.

Example

He is keeping up with the latest trends in fashion.

Example

They kept up with their classmates during the race.

Example

She has always kept up with her studies.

What kind of phrasal verb is “keep up with”?

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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 with” 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 can't keep up with his fast pace.

Example

She keeps up with the latest news.

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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 with” 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 can't keep up with his fast pace.

Example

She keeps up with the latest news.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “keep up with”?

Keep up with the Joneses

To try to maintain the same social and material status as one's neighbors or peers, often by buying expensive items or engaging in costly activities.

Example

They bought a new car just to keep up with the Joneses.

Keep up with the times

To stay current with modern trends, ideas, or technology.

Example

Businesses need to keep up with the times to stay competitive.

Keep up with one's studies

To stay on track with schoolwork and not fall behind.

Example

She always keeps up with her studies to maintain good grades.

Good things to know

Does “keep up with” have an informal or formal tone?

Keep up with 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 academic or professional discussions.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “keep up with”?

Synonyms

• follow
• match
• maintain pace
• stay current
• stay informed
• stay up to date
• stay abreast

Antonyms

• lag
• ignore
• neglect
• disregard
• overlook
• fall behind