1 B1 idiomatic informal
To maintain emotional self-control in a difficult or stressful situation.
"She was devastated by the news, but somehow kept it together until after the meeting ended."
keep it together
B2 informal intransitive
To maintain composure, self-control, or the effective functioning of a situation or group under pressure.
In plain English
To stay calm and in control when things are difficult.
What does "keep it together" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic informal
To manage a group, team, or situation so that it continues to function effectively despite difficulties.
"With the project falling behind schedule, it was the team leader's job to keep it together and motivate everyone."
Usage tip
Used both literally (keeping a group or situation functional) and figuratively (maintaining emotional or psychological composure). Often used in encouraging contexts ('You can keep it together') or as a description of someone managing under pressure.
Words that pair with "keep it together"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
emotionally barely managed to trying to just about
How to conjugate "keep it together"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
keep it together
I/you/we/they
3rd person
keeps it together
he/she/it
Past simple
kept it together
yesterday
Past participle
kept it together
have + pp
-ing form
keeping it together
continuous
Hear "keep it together" in the wild
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Other ways to say "keep it together"
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