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keep up with

A2 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words

To stay at the same level as someone or something, or to always know what is happening.

Literal meaning: To travel at the same speed as someone moving alongside you.

Meanings

1 A2 neutral

To move or work at the same speed as someone or something so as not to fall behind.

"She ran faster, and I found it hard to keep up with her."

Grammar: inseparable
2 A2 neutral

To stay informed about current events, news, or developments.

"I check the news every morning to keep up with what's happening in the world."

Grammar: inseparable
3 B1 neutral

To match or meet a growing demand, rate, or standard.

"Production couldn't keep up with the demand for the new phone model."

Grammar: inseparable
4 B1 informal

To maintain regular contact or a relationship with someone.

"It's difficult to keep up with old friends once you move to a different city."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

One of the most common phrasal verbs in English. Used for pace (keeping up with a runner), information (keeping up with the news), technology (keeping up with trends), social pressure (keeping up with the Joneses), and relationships (keeping up with friends). Very flexible in register.

Commonly used with

news trends technology changes demand payments Joneses developments

Forms

Base
keep up with
I/you/we/they
3rd person
keeps up with
he/she/it
Past simple
kept up with
yesterday
Past participle
kept up with
have + pp
-ing form
keeping up with
continuous

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Synonyms

stay abreast of match track follow stay current with keep pace with

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