Quick Definition
Keep Up — To maintain the same pace or standard as someone else; to continue doing something regularly.
Meanings of Keep Up
| Meaning | Example Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Match pace/standard | I couldn't keep up with the rest of the class. | I couldn't match their speed or level. |
| Maintain a habit | Keep up the good work! | Continue at this standard. |
| Prevent sleeping | The noise next door kept me up all night. | It prevented me from sleeping. |
Example Sentences
| Sentence | Meaning in Context |
|---|---|
| I couldn't keep up with the rest of the class. | I couldn't match their speed or level. |
| Keep up the good work! | Continue at this standard. |
| The noise next door kept me up all night. | It prevented me from sleeping. |
| "Don't worry -- I'll keep up it." | Using it in a short reassurance. |
Grammar Notes
Separability & Transitivity
Type: separable | Transitivity: transitive / intransitive
Intransitive with 'with' (keep up with) or transitive separable (keep the good work up / keep up the good work).
How to Use Keep Up
Neutral. Common in academic, professional, and social contexts.
| Register | Example / Notes |
|---|---|
| Informal / Spoken | I couldn't keep up with the rest of the class. |
| Neutral / Written | Consider context; single-word synonyms may suit formal writing. |
Similar Phrasal Verbs
Practise Keep Up
Practice English Phrasal Verbs
Use these exercises to master phrasal verbs in context:
Frequently Asked Questions about Keep Up
What does "Keep Up" mean?
"Keep Up" means: To maintain the same pace or standard as someone else; to continue doing something regularly. It is a transitive / intransitive phrasal verb rated CEFR B1.
Is "Keep Up" separable or inseparable?
"Keep Up" is separable. Intransitive with 'with' (keep up with) or transitive separable (keep the good work up / keep up the good work).
How do I use "Keep Up" in a sentence?
I couldn't keep up with the rest of the class. -- in this example, 'Keep Up' means i couldn't match their speed or level.
What is the register of "Keep Up"?
Neutral. Common in academic, professional, and social contexts.
What CEFR level is "Keep Up"?
"Keep Up" is typically taught at CEFR B1 — Intermediate level. It appears frequently in neutral contexts.
What is the difference between "Keep Up" and similar phrasal verbs?
"Keep Up" specifically means: To maintain the same pace or standard as someone else; to continue doing something regularly. Compare with similar verbs in the 'Similar Phrasal Verbs' section below for nuanced differences.
Can "Keep Up" be used formally?
Neutral. Common in academic, professional, and social contexts. When writing formally, consider whether a single-word synonym might be more appropriate for the context.
Does "Keep Up" take an object?
"Keep Up" is transitive / intransitive. Intransitive with 'with' (keep up with) or transitive separable (keep the good work up / keep up the good work).
How can I practise "Keep Up"?
Use LexFizz's Find the Match and Flip Tiles exercises to practise 'Keep Up' in context. Seeing it in multiple sentences helps the meaning stick.
Is "Keep Up" used in British or American English?
"Keep Up" is used in both British and American English, though register and frequency may vary. Neutral. Common in academic, professional, and social contexts.