# keep around

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/keep-around
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to continue to have someone or something near you because they might be useful or pleasant.

For teachers: to retain the presence or services of a person, or to keep an object in one's immediate environment for potential future utility.

## Examples

- I think I'll keep this old map around just in case.
- Even though he is retired, the company decided to keep him around as a part-time consultant.
- The CEO preferred to keep around a small circle of trusted advisors who were willing to challenge her strategic assumptions.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I keep around it." but "I keep it around." — when the object is a pronoun, it must come between the verb and the particle.

## Usage notes

- often used with people to imply they are being retained for their value or company.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'keep' (general possession) by highlighting that 'keep around' emphasizes physical proximity or continued availability in a specific environment.

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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.