it keeps him

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it keeps him" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something maintains or continues to have a certain effect on a male subject. Example: "The routine is strict, but it keeps him focused on his goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Dallas Buyers Club is at its best when it keeps him that way.

The Guardian - Film

It keeps him docile.

The New Yorker

And it keeps him young.

Independent

It keeps him going.

The New York Times - Sports

It keeps him offshore.

The Guardian - Books

It keeps him grounded, he says.

The Guardian - Film

I think it keeps him going".

The New York Times

He does say it keeps him focused.

The New York Times - Magazine

It keeps him awake sometimes.

The Guardian - Sport

It keeps him working in October.

The New York Times - Sports

It keeps him very busy turning out product.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the nuance of 'keeps' - does it imply maintaining a state, continuing an action, or providing a benefit? Choose a synonym if a more precise meaning is needed.

Common error

Avoid using "it keeps him" when 'it' has no clear antecedent or could refer to multiple things. This can confuse the reader and weaken your writing. Always make sure the reference is explicit.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it keeps him" functions as a clause element within a sentence, typically acting as part of the predicate. It indicates that something has a continuing effect on a male subject, maintaining a certain state or condition. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a common and grammatically correct construction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it keeps him" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It indicates that something maintains a certain effect or condition on a male subject. While generally neutral in register, its specific nuance can vary depending on the context. It's important to ensure that 'it' has a clear antecedent to avoid ambiguity. Common alternatives include "it maintains him" and "it sustains him". Predominantly found in news and media, it serves to explain the cause-and-effect relationship in maintaining a person's state or condition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it maintains him

Replaces 'keeps' with 'maintains', suggesting a more consistent and sustained effect.

it sustains him

Uses 'sustains' to imply that something provides support or nourishment, either literally or figuratively.

it helps him to remain

Emphasizes the assistance provided in maintaining a state or condition.

it allows him to stay

Highlights the permission or enablement aspect of the action.

it enables him to continue

Focuses on the empowerment or ability to proceed.

it preserves him

Implies protection or conservation of a state or quality.

it safeguards him

Stresses the protective nature of the action.

it secures him

Suggests ensuring stability or safety.

it defends him

Highlights protection from harm or opposition.

it shields him

Focuses on covering or guarding from something negative.

FAQs

How can I use "it keeps him" in a sentence?

You can use "it keeps him" to describe something that maintains a person's state or condition. For example, "His dedication to exercise keeps him healthy", or "The challenge keeps him engaged".

What are some alternatives to "it keeps him"?

You can use alternatives like "it maintains him", "it sustains him", or "it helps him" depending on the context.

Is "it keeps him" formal or informal?

"It keeps him" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives might be preferred in academic or professional writing.

What does "it keeps him grounded" mean?

"It keeps him grounded" means something helps him stay connected to reality and avoid becoming arrogant or losing perspective. The phrase implies a stabilizing influence.