be able to keep

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be able to keep" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's capability to maintain or retain something, whether it's a promise, a secret, or a physical object. Example: "I hope to be able to keep my commitments to the team throughout the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Will Mr. Abraham himself be able to keep up?

The New York Times - Arts

I like to be able to keep moving ahead.

Yale University

You'll not only be able to keep your berkeley.edu email address, you'll be able to keep your account!

University of California, Berkeley

We won't be able to keep our backlog under control.

The New York Times

That was a promise he won't be able to keep.

The New Yorker

Badstuber should be able to keep Gekas under control.

Independent

Would I be able to keep this frog alive?

The New York Times

That way they would be able to keep him close.

The Guardian

"We'd likely be able to keep the well shut in".

The New York Times

To be able to keep doing what I'm doing!

The New York Times - Magazine

He will be able to keep his food down.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be able to keep", ensure the context clearly specifies what is being kept, and under what conditions. Clarity enhances the effectiveness of your communication.

Common error

Avoid using "be able to keep" in overly complex sentences where simpler verbs like "maintain" or "retain" would improve readability. Conciseness often strengthens your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be able to keep" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing ability or capacity to maintain possession or control over something. This is supported by the numerous examples provided by Ludwig, which demonstrate its use in various contexts, from retaining physical objects to adhering to promises.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be able to keep" is a grammatically correct and frequently used modal verb phrase that expresses the ability or capacity to maintain or retain something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is versatile enough for various contexts, with a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal communication. The phrase is most commonly found in News & Media. For clearer writing, consider replacing it with alternatives like "can maintain" when appropriate, and be mindful of sentence complexity. Overall, "be able to keep" is a reliable choice for expressing capability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can maintain

Highlights the ability to sustain or uphold something at a certain level or condition.

manage to retain

Focuses on the act of successfully retaining something, often implying effort or difficulty.

be equipped to sustain

Highlights the preparedness or resources available to maintain something over time.

succeed in preserving

Emphasizes the success in maintaining something, often against potential loss or decay.

be capable of conserving

Focuses on the ability to preserve resources or energy effectively.

have the capacity to hold

Refers to the inherent ability or space to contain or retain something.

have what it takes to secure

Highlights the qualities or resources needed to ensure the continuation or possession of something.

be in a position to safeguard

Implies a capability to protect something from harm or loss.

be entitled to preserve

Indicates a legal or moral right to maintain something.

retain the option to keep

Emphasizes the choice or right to continue possessing something.

FAQs

How can I use "be able to keep" in a sentence?

Use "be able to keep" when discussing the capacity to maintain or retain something. For example, "Will I "be able to keep my job" after the merger?"

What are some alternatives to "be able to keep"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "manage to retain", "succeed in preserving", or "can maintain".

Is it better to say "be able to keep" or "can keep"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "can keep" is generally more concise and direct. "Be able to keep" might be used for emphasis or in more formal contexts.

What's the difference between "be able to keep" and "have to keep"?

"Be able to keep" indicates a capability or possibility, while "have to keep" implies an obligation or necessity. The choice depends on whether you are describing an ability or a requirement.