Phrasal verb
keep to
Definition
phrasal verb. to follow a rule, a plan, or a promise without changing it.
phrasal verb. to adhere strictly to a predetermined plan, schedule, or set of regulations; to limit oneself to a specific topic or path.
Examples
“Please keep to the path so you don't get lost.”
“If we want to finish the project on time, we must keep to the original schedule.”
“The witness was instructed to keep to the facts of the case and avoid any personal speculation regarding the defendant's motives.”
Examples
simple
“Please keep to the path so you don't get lost.”
contextual
“If we want to finish the project on time, we must keep to the original schedule.”
complex
“The witness was instructed to keep to the facts of the case and avoid any personal speculation regarding the defendant's motives.”
Usage
usually followed by an abstract noun like 'plan', 'schedule', 'rules', or 'topic'.
Teaching tip
contrast with 'stick to', which is more informal; 'keep to' implies a more disciplined or formal adherence to a boundary.
Pitfall
You must keep to your promises.
You must keep your promises.
when talking about promises, 'keep' is used alone; 'keep to' is for following a plan or staying within a limit.
Phrasal verb
Particles
to
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
keep + to + object