keep a record of

USAGE SUMMARY

"keep a record of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express the idea of noting down information or tracking something over time. For example: "I want to keep a record of how much money I spend each month."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Keep a record of threats.

Nature

The Library does not keep a record of receipts issued.

University of California, Berkeley

Keep a record of your calls, conversations, and meetings.

Columbia University

Keep a record of any sources you decide to consult.

University of California, Berkeley

If I could, I'd keep a record of it all.

The New Yorker

She said owners should keep a record of that number.

The New York Times

Keep a record of the experience in your journal.

The New York Times

Keep a record of your readings on this subject.

The New York Times

Courts don't keep a record of these sorts of cases.

The New York Times

How do you keep a record of your material?

The Guardian

Keep a record of the ID/password.

Duke University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "keep a record of", be specific about what you are recording and why. This adds clarity and purpose to your documentation.

Common error

Avoid recording only positive outcomes. Document both successes and failures to provide a comprehensive understanding of events and processes. If you don't, you risk bias and skewed data.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep a record of" functions as a verb phrase used to express the act of documenting, tracking, or logging information for future reference. Ludwig AI confirms this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

28%

Academia

18%

Less common in

Science

16%

Formal & Business

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "keep a record of" is a versatile and widely used expression that signifies the act of documenting or tracking information. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s grammatically correct and appropriate across various contexts, from news and academic writing to informal guides. To enhance your writing, be specific about what you are recording and why. Remember to document both successes and failures for a comprehensive understanding. Consider alternatives like "maintain a record of" or "document" depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

maintain a record of

This alternative uses "maintain" instead of "keep", suggesting a more continuous and active effort in preserving the record.

keep track of

This alternative is a very similar phrasal verb focusing on monitoring something.

retain a record of

Using "retain" implies holding onto or preserving an existing record, rather than creating one.

document

This is a more concise verb that encapsulates the act of recording information.

track

This alternative focuses on following the progress or changes of something over time.

log

Using "log" emphasizes a systematic and often chronological recording of events or data.

compile a record of

This suggests gathering information from different sources to create a comprehensive record.

preserve a record of

Focuses on maintaining the integrity and longevity of the record.

register

This option implies formally recording something in an official list or system.

chronicle

This verb suggests recording events in a sequential and detailed manner.

FAQs

How can I use "keep a record of" in a sentence?

You can use "keep a record of" to indicate documenting or tracking something. For example, "It's important to keep a record of your expenses" or "The researchers keep a record of the participants' progress".

What are some alternatives to "keep a record of"?

You can use alternatives like "maintain a record of", "retain a record of", or simply "document" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "keep a record of" or "maintain a record of"?

Both "keep a record of" and "maintain a record of" are correct and very similar. "Maintain" often suggests a more ongoing and active effort, while "keep" is more general.

Why should I "keep a record of" something?

Keeping a record helps you track progress, analyze data, and make informed decisions. It provides a reference point for future use and can be essential for accountability and legal purposes.