# keep out

CEFR A2 · Phrasal verb

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

## Definition

to stay away from a place, or to stop someone or something from entering.

For teachers: to remain outside a specified area or to prevent entry; functions as both an intransitive imperative and a transitive verb.

## Examples

- The sign on the gate says 'Keep Out'.
- We used a tall fence to keep out the neighborhood cats from our garden.
- Despite the heavy security measures intended to keep out unauthorized personnel, several protesters managed to breach the perimeter during the summit.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The wall keeps out to the cold." but "The wall keeps out the cold." — do not use 'to' after 'keep out'; the phrase takes a direct object immediately after the particle.

## Usage notes

- often used as a command on signs; when transitive, the object can go between 'keep' and 'out'.
- Teaching tip: teach as a high-frequency safety sign first; then introduce the transitive form 'keep [something] out' to show how the meaning extends to protection.

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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.