be kept within

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be kept within" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something should be contained within certain limits or boundaries. For example: "The budget must be kept within our original limit of $10,000."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

After all, Iran's culture dictates that family problems be kept within the confines of the home.

The New York Times

Therefore the growth of ivy on trees should be kept within reasonable bounds.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Likewise, deflections both local and overall must be kept within safe limits.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They are isolated incidences and should be kept within that very remit - between the pupils and their school.

The Guardian - Opinion

Rather, it would ensure that their size be kept within reason in relation to their lot area".

The New York Times

"And, as far as they're concerned, this is a covert operation, and it's to be kept within Defense Department channels".

The New Yorker

It means that most information should be kept within the team, not shared with those on the outside.

The New York Times - Sports

His dismissal of Hussain, who misread the line and was trapped on the back foot, virtually ensured that England's total would be kept within manageable proportions.

The Guardian - Sport

India must make clear – and the US must recognise – that a subcontinental country of a billion-plus people cannot be kept within the categorical confines of "South Asia".

The Guardian - Opinion

Even if the temperature rise can be kept within the 2C band, an additional 40-60 million Africans are likely to be exposed.

The Guardian - Opinion

If more of the income they generate could be kept within the various countries it would be possible to make needed public improvements.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be kept within" to clearly define boundaries or limitations. For example, "Project costs must be kept within the allocated budget".

Common error

Avoid using "be kept within" when a more flexible or accommodating approach is needed. Consider alternatives like "stay near" or "generally adhere to" when strict adherence is not essential.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be kept within" functions as a passive voice construction indicating that something should be maintained or contained inside specified boundaries or limits. As Ludwig AI indicates, the expression is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be kept within" is a grammatically sound and common expression used to indicate that something should remain within specific limits or boundaries. As Ludwig AI affirms, it is a valid and usable phrase in English writing. Its frequency is high across various domains, including science, news media, and encyclopedias, suggesting its widespread applicability. When using this phrase, ensure that the context requires a clear demarcation of limits and that the language is appropriate for the intended audience. Be mindful of using overly restrictive language when a more flexible approach is needed. Overall, "be kept within" is a valuable tool for precise communication, particularly in formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be confined within

This alternative suggests a stricter limitation, implying that something is forcibly restricted.

be contained within

Suggests that something is held or enclosed by something else.

be restricted to

This focuses on limiting access or scope, rather than physical containment.

be limited to

Emphasizes a defined upper boundary or maximum extent.

be enclosed within

Focuses on physical enclosure or surrounding.

be circumscribed by

Implies precise and often formal delineation of limits.

be governed by

This focuses on rules and regulations that limit behavior or actions.

be subject to

Indicates that something is under the control or influence of something else.

be held to

Suggests adherence to certain standards or expectations.

be restrained by

Emphasizes the use of force or control to keep something within bounds.

FAQs

How can I use "be kept within" in a sentence?

Use "be kept within" to indicate that something needs to stay inside specific limits or boundaries. For example, "All personal information must "be kept within" the company's secure database".

What are some alternatives to "be kept within"?

Alternatives include "be confined within", "be contained within", or "be limited to". Choose the alternative that best fits the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "be kept within"?

It's suitable when you need to emphasize the importance of adhering to specific limitations or boundaries, such as in legal documents or technical specifications.

What's the difference between "be kept within" and "be maintained within"?

"Be kept within" focuses on containment, while "be maintained within" emphasizes keeping something at a certain level or standard over time.