English Reference

Phrasal verb

keep up

Definition

phrasal verb. to move or progress at the same speed as someone or something else so you do not fall behind.

phrasal verb. to maintain the same pace, level, or progress as another entity. Often functions as an intransitive verb or as part of a three-part phrasal verb with 'with'.

Examples

“You are walking too fast and I cannot keep up.”

“It is difficult to keep up with all the new technology that comes out every year.”

“The small local bookstore struggled to keep up with the aggressive pricing strategies and rapid delivery times of its multinational competitors.”

Examples

simple

“You are walking too fast and I cannot keep up.”

contextual

“It is difficult to keep up with all the new technology that comes out every year.”

complex

“The small local bookstore struggled to keep up with the aggressive pricing strategies and rapid delivery times of its multinational competitors.”

Usage

Often followed by 'with' when an object is mentioned.

Teaching tip

Contrast with 'keep on' (continue) and focus on the 'with' collocation for the most common usage.

Pitfall

I can't keep up the other students.

I can't keep up with the other students.

When an object follows, the preposition 'with' is required.

Phrasal verb

Particles

up

Separability

inseparable

Pattern

keep + up (+ with + object)

Synonyms

keep pacematchstay level

Antonyms

fall behindlag

Grammar

Phrasal verbs (introduction)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
Level
B1 · Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference