I keep doing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I keep doing" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe an action that is continuing over time, for example: "I keep doing my best to stay healthy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"So I keep doing it".

The New Yorker

"I know, I keep doing that!

The Guardian - Music

"No wonder I keep doing it.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Should I keep doing them to strengthen that side?

The New York Times

"If I keep doing that, then I'll be successful.

The New York Times - Sports

Why do I keep doing this to myself?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

You might wonder why I keep doing it.

The Guardian

I keep doing my own stuff, and I enjoy myself".

The Guardian - Film

I really don't know why I keep doing this.

The New Yorker

I hate myself when I do that, but I keep doing it.

The New York Times

I don't know why I keep doing that, but I guess I do.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I keep doing", ensure the context clearly indicates why the action is being repeated. Is it a habit, a conscious choice, or something you are compelled to do?

Common error

Avoid using "I keep doing" as a filler phrase. Always ensure it adds meaningful information to your sentence. Instead of saying "I keep doing it", specify the action and its purpose or consequence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I keep doing" functions as a declarative statement expressing the continuation of an action. It is commonly used to describe ongoing habits, repeated behaviors, or persistent efforts, as supported by the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I keep doing" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe an ongoing or repeated action. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. Predominantly found in News & Media, the phrase serves to convey intentionality, habit, or necessity. While versatile, it's important to provide context to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "I continue to do" or "I persist in doing" can offer a more formal tone when required. The phrase's frequency and consistent usage across authoritative sources solidify its place in standard English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I continue to do

Focuses on the continuation of an action, emphasizing its ongoing nature.

I persist in doing

Emphasizes determination and not giving up despite potential difficulties.

I repeatedly do

Highlights the repetitive nature of the action.

I find myself doing

Suggests the action is somewhat unintentional or habitual.

I am always doing

Implies a high frequency and regularity of the action.

I'm in the habit of doing

Indicates a routine or established practice.

I have a tendency to do

Suggests a predisposition or inclination towards the action.

I am inclined to do

Similar to having a tendency, but can also imply a willingness.

I keep at it

A more concise way of expressing continued effort and persistence.

I'm sticking with doing

Expresses commitment and a decision to continue with the action.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "I keep doing" to sound more formal?

In formal contexts, consider alternatives such as "I continue to do", "I persist in doing", or "I repeatedly do". These options often convey a more professional tone than "I keep doing".

Is it correct to say "I keep to do" instead of "I keep doing"?

No, the correct form is "I keep doing". The verb "keep" in this context requires a gerund (verb ending in -ing), not an infinitive. Therefore, "I keep "to do"" is grammatically incorrect.

What's the difference between "I keep doing" and "I continue doing"?

"I keep doing" implies a sense of habit or persistence, while "I continue doing" simply indicates the action is ongoing. The nuance is subtle, but "I keep doing" often suggests the action is repeated over a longer period.

When should I use "I kept doing" instead of "I keep doing"?

Use "I kept doing" when referring to a past action that was repeated or continued over a period of time. "I keep doing" refers to a present or ongoing action. For example, "I kept doing it even though it was difficult" refers to the past, while "I keep doing it because I enjoy it" refers to the present.