keep alert

USAGE SUMMARY

"keep alert" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is an imperative sentence and is often used as a command or instruction to remain attentive and aware. Example: "As you hike through the woods, make sure to keep alert for any signs of wildlife."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

(The founders had to keep alert to avoid being crushed by lumbering robots).

The New Yorker

He would advise his soldiers to keep alert at all times.

The New York Times

As the night wore on, people crowded the Council coffee machine to keep alert.

The New York Times

But you can hope for it, be ready, keep alert – as any writer probably should in general.

The Guardian - Books

Consider buying or borrowing some books on tape (my library offers summer loans) to help keep alert while driving.

The New York Times - Health

A minute or two later he's gone, but if I keep alert I'll spot him again, a little closer or a little farther away, renewing acquaintance.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

Keep alerts in the menu until you're done with them, as reminders.

WikiHow

I kept alert, but panic and hyperventilation were averted.

Huffington Post

My Time Machine program keeps alerting me that it is deleting old backups.

The New York Times

It keeps you alert, it keeps you focused, it makes you understand that you can't exhale.

The New York Times - Sports

Keep Stanford alert!

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing instructions or warnings, use "keep alert" to emphasize the need for continuous and active awareness, such as in safety manuals or emergency procedures.

Common error

Avoid using "keep alert" when the context requires a more passive state of awareness. For instance, instead of saying "keep alert while sleeping", consider "be aware of your surroundings" as being fully alert while sleeping is impossible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep alert" functions primarily as an imperative, giving a command or instruction to maintain a state of vigilance. Ludwig AI confirms this, with numerous examples showcasing its use as a directive across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

23%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "keep alert" is a grammatically sound and frequently used imperative, instructing someone to maintain vigilance and awareness. As Ludwig AI confirms, its applications are diverse, spanning from safety instructions to general warnings. While applicable in various registers, it maintains a generally neutral tone and appears most commonly in news media, wiki and academic sources. To enhance clarity and precision, consider alternatives like "stay vigilant" or "remain attentive" depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stay vigilant

Emphasizes continuous watchfulness against potential dangers or problems, suggesting a more proactive approach than simply being alert.

be watchful

Highlights the act of observing carefully for specific signs or events, implying a directed focus.

remain attentive

Focuses on paying close attention to details and surroundings, suggesting a more mental and cognitive state of alertness.

maintain awareness

Stresses the importance of possessing knowledge and understanding of the situation, implying a broader perspective than just being alert.

keep an eye out

A more informal expression for watching for something specific, suggesting a casual but focused alertness.

be on the lookout

Similar to "keep an eye out" but slightly more formal, also implying a specific target or threat to watch for.

stay sharp

Focuses on maintaining mental acuity and readiness, suggesting alertness in terms of quick thinking and responsiveness.

exercise caution

Implies a need for carefulness and prudence due to potential risks, emphasizing the behavioral aspect of alertness.

be on your guard

Suggests preparing for potential threats or attacks, indicating a heightened state of alertness for defensive purposes.

pay attention

A general call for focusing one's mental resources on the present, often used when someone is distracted or inattentive.

FAQs

How can I use "keep alert" in a sentence?

Use "keep alert" to instruct someone to remain watchful and attentive. For example, "As you hike through the forest, "keep alert" for any signs of wildlife".

What are some alternatives to "keep alert"?

Alternatives include "stay vigilant", "be watchful", or "remain attentive", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "stay alert" instead of "keep alert"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. However, "keep alert" suggests maintaining a state of awareness, while "stay alert" implies continuing to be in that state. The choice depends on the specific context.

What is the difference between "keep alert" and "be aware"?

"Keep alert" typically implies a more active and focused state of watchfulness, whereas "be aware" suggests a general understanding of surroundings or circumstances. For example, you might "keep alert" for danger, but "be aware" of the weather conditions.