# keep up with

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

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

## Definition

to move at the same speed as someone else, or to stay informed about the latest news and changes.

For teachers: to maintain the same pace or level of progress as another; to remain current with developments in a specific field or topic.

## Examples

- I walk fast, so try to keep up with me.
- It is difficult to keep up with all the new technology released every year.
- The small firm struggled to keep up with its larger competitors as the market shifted toward digital-first solutions.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I can't keep up the news." but "I can't keep up with the news." — the preposition 'with' is required when the object of the phrase is mentioned.

## Usage notes

- usually followed by a noun or pronoun object representing the person, pace, or information source.
- Teaching tip: distinguish between the physical sense of walking/running and the mental sense of staying informed; both imply a fear of falling behind.

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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.