keep it 100

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keep it 100" is correct and usable in written English, particularly in informal contexts.
You can use it to express the idea of being honest, genuine, or authentic in a conversation. Example: "I appreciate your honesty; it's refreshing to hear someone who really keeps it 100."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

So, Mr President, if I'm going to keep it 100".

The Guardian

"To keep it 100, I couldn't always be even," he said.

The Guardian

So, Mr President, if I'm going to keep it 100: yo, Barry, you did it, my nigga".

The Guardian

"I've had people mad at me for doing that, but what can I do if I want to keep it 100?" he said.

The Guardian

Some of the show's recurring segments and tag lines caught on, such as "Keep It 100," which was Wilmore's standard for unvarnished and unpopular truth.

The New Yorker

"Keep it 100," says Larry Wilmore, the comedian and talk show host, repeating the catchphrase that has become his trademark and guiding principle.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

I tried to keep it 50/50.

The Guardian

You look to keep it 0-0 and wait patiently".

The New York Times - Sports

The longer they keep it 0-0, the better for Schmetzer and his squad.

The Guardian - Sport

If it's 30p output (as they specify), then keep it 30p.

TechCrunch

I mean let's keep it 100 there's already over 15,000 journalists there from all over the world, several news outlets are offering around-the-clock coverage, and protests are being planned throughout the city.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "keep it 100" in informal settings to emphasize your commitment to honesty and authenticity. It adds a relatable and genuine tone to your communication.

Common error

Avoid using "keep it 100" in formal writing or professional communication. The informal nature of the phrase can undermine your credibility and make your message seem unprofessional.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep it 100" functions as an idiomatic expression used to emphasize honesty and authenticity. Ludwig examples show it is used in direct speech and informal contexts to express a commitment to being genuine and truthful.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Informal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "keep it 100" is a common phrase used to convey honesty and authenticity, primarily in informal settings. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English, especially in informal contexts. While it adds a relatable tone, it's best to avoid using it in formal communication where a more professional register is expected. Related phrases include ""be real"" and "stay true". Overall, understanding the appropriate context for "keep it 100" will help you communicate effectively and genuinely.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be real

Short and direct way of asking someone to be authentic.

stay true

Focuses on maintaining one's integrity and not compromising beliefs.

tell it like it is

Emphasizes directness and honesty, even if it's unpleasant.

be upfront

Highlights the importance of being honest and straightforward from the beginning.

lay it all on the table

Suggests complete transparency and honesty in a discussion.

be genuine

Highlights authenticity and sincerity in one's actions and words.

speak frankly

Emphasizes speaking in a candid and open manner.

give it to you straight

Indicates that someone will provide an honest and unfiltered opinion.

no holds barred

Implies complete openness and honesty without any restrictions.

without sugarcoating

Highlights honesty by avoiding embellishments or softening the truth.

FAQs

How can I use "keep it 100" in a sentence?

You can use "keep it 100" to emphasize honesty and authenticity. For example, "I appreciate that you always "be real" and "keep it 100" with me."

What does it mean to "keep it 100"?

To "keep it 100" means to be completely honest and genuine, without holding anything back. It's about expressing your true thoughts and feelings.

Are there any alternatives to the phrase "keep it 100"?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "be honest", ""be real"", or "tell the truth" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "keep it 100" appropriate for all situations?

No, "keep it 100" is best suited for informal conversations. It's generally not appropriate for formal writing or professional settings where a more serious tone is expected. In those cases it's better to "be frank" instead.