# keep off the streets

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/keep-off-the-streets
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To inspire or cause (someone) to avoid idleness, unemployment, poverty, or antisocial behavior.

## Examples

- Sports programs help keep kids off the streets.
- The community center offers free classes to keep local teenagers off the streets after school.
- By providing consistent employment and a sense of purpose, the new initiative aims to keep vulnerable youth off the streets and away from criminal influence.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.