keep a close hold

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keep a close hold" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward.
It could be used in contexts where one wants to emphasize maintaining a strong grip or control over something, but it is not a standard expression. Example: "In order to ensure the project's success, we must keep a close hold on our budget and resources."

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Even in their dealings with this investigation, some government officials have struggled to keep a close hold on information.

The New York Times

Kelly also sought to keep a close hold on information about the raid, even from his superiors at the Pentagon and the White House.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Throughout the long development process, Lavender adds, Wade kept a close hold on the boys she had created.

The Guardian

In St . Paul Mr. Bush will speak on the convention's opening night, said Dana Perino, the White House press secretary — a tiny bit of news from an administration that typically keeps a close hold on the president's schedule.

The New York Times

Mr. Calderón keeps a close eye on the drug war, holding regular strategy sessions with his national security staff and even personally intervening on law enforcement matters.

The New York Times

A watchdog has said it will keep a close eye on energy companies over personal data held on smart meters.

BBC

Heavies keep a close eye on Hall.

Independent

–Keep a close eye on pricing.

Forbes

I’d keep a close eye on this.

Forbes

Keep a close eye on this one.

TechCrunch

Keep a close eye on your child.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity and modern language, consider using more common alternatives like "maintain a tight grip" or "keep a close watch" instead of "keep a close hold".

Common error

Avoid using "keep a close hold" in contexts where simpler, more direct language would be more effective. Overuse of this phrase can make your writing sound unnatural or stilted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep a close hold" functions primarily as a verb phrase indicating the action of maintaining tight control or vigilance over something. Ludwig AI suggests that while grammatically acceptable, the phrase is not commonly used in modern English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

50%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "keep a close hold" suggests maintaining strict control or vigilance. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct but not particularly common in modern English. While its intent is clear, using more common alternatives like "maintain a tight grip" or "keep a close watch" might improve clarity. The phrase appears in both News & Media and Wiki contexts, suggesting a neutral register. If you're looking for a modern and frequently used expression, consider alternatives. The best practice is to opt for simpler, more direct language to ensure your writing is clear and accessible.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

maintain a firm grip

Emphasizes the physical aspect of holding something tightly.

keep a tight rein

Suggests controlling something, often in a figurative sense like finances or emotions.

maintain strict control

Focuses on the act of maintaining control, highlighting the rigor involved.

exercise vigilance

Highlights the act of being watchful and alert.

keep a watchful eye

Similar to exercising vigilance, but emphasizes the visual aspect of watching over something.

hold something dear

Implies valuing and protecting something important.

maintain custody

Implies possessing and protecting something officially or legally.

retain possession

Focuses on keeping something in one's possession, often against potential loss.

preserve carefully

Emphasizes the act of maintaining something in its original state through careful means.

safeguard diligently

Highlights the protection of something with dedicated effort.

FAQs

What does "keep a close hold" mean?

The phrase "keep a close hold" means to maintain tight control or vigilance over something, often implying a need for security or secrecy. It suggests preventing information or an object from being released or lost.

How can I use "keep a close hold" in a sentence?

You can use "keep a close hold" when you want to emphasize the need to maintain strict control. For example: "The government tried to "keep a close hold" on sensitive information."

Are there more common alternatives to "keep a close hold"?

Yes, more common alternatives include phrases like "maintain a tight grip", "keep a close watch", or "maintain strict control". These options are generally more frequently used in modern English.

When is it appropriate to use "keep a close hold"?

While grammatically correct, "keep a close hold" is less frequently used. It might be appropriate when you want to convey a sense of traditional or formal expression, but in most modern contexts, a simpler phrase is preferable.