keep it steady

USAGE SUMMARY

'keep it steady' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you want to express the idea of holding or maintaining something at a steady pace or level. For example, "John, don't get too excited - just keep it steady and you'll finish the marathon in no time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

3. Keep it Steady.

The New York Times

Keep it steady.

The Economist

Keep it steady, and watch out for interpenetration.

Cornell University

(You pull it tight against the strap; the tension helps keep it steady).

The New York Times

There is a hand strap on the back of the laptop to help keep it steady.

The New York Times - Tech

The Global Hawk depends on global positioning satellite signals to keep it steady when it lands.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

The reason for this is the different way they use the accelerator pedal; they push it less and keep it steadier.

European Transport Research Review

"He kept it steady through a tough period of time.

The New York Times - Sports

The weight of the water or food keeps it steady.

The New York Times - Travel

He's got the short game to do very well here this week if he keeps it steady.

The Guardian - Sport

The joystick is nicely designed, with a tripod-like base that keeps it steady and the slick design typical of Logitech products.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When giving instructions or advice, use “keep it steady” to encourage a balanced approach, avoiding extreme fluctuations or sudden changes. For instance, in cooking, tell someone to "keep it steady" on the heat to prevent burning.

Common error

While “keep it steady” is generally acceptable, it can sound too informal or simplistic in certain formal contexts. Consider using more precise and sophisticated language, such as "maintain a consistent level" or "ensure stability" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase “keep it steady” primarily functions as an imperative, used to give a command or instruction. This is supported by Ludwig AI, which confirms its correct and usable nature in written English. The examples provided by Ludwig demonstrate its use in various contexts, from operating machinery to maintaining emotional stability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

33%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, “keep it steady” is a versatile imperative phrase used to advise maintaining a consistent pace, level, or state. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable in various contexts. While its register is generally neutral, it's advisable to use more formal language in highly professional settings. Common usage includes instructions for driving, cooking, and emotional regulation. Remember to avoid overusing it in formal writing and consider using more precise alternatives when appropriate. With a balance of usage across News & Media, Wiki, and Academia, mastering this phrase will help ensure clarity and stability in your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

keep things stable

Highlights the act of ensuring stability in a situation or system.

proceed at a steady rate

Specifically refers to the speed of progression, avoiding sudden changes.

maintain a consistent pace

Focuses on the consistency of speed or progress, applicable in scenarios like running or project management.

keep things constant

Emphasizes avoiding variation or fluctuation.

stay the course

Suggests continuing on a chosen path despite difficulties or distractions.

keep a steady hand

Highlights the need for precision and control, often in delicate tasks.

hold firm

Emphasizes resisting external pressure and remaining steadfast.

keep it gradual

Stresses the importance of incremental changes or progression.

maintain equilibrium

Highlights the act of balancing opposing forces to achieve a state of steadiness.

keep a level head

Focuses on maintaining emotional stability, especially in stressful situations.

FAQs

How can I use “keep it steady” in a sentence?

You can use “keep it steady” to advise someone to maintain a consistent pace or level. For example, “When driving in snow, "keep it steady" to avoid skidding”.

What does “keep it steady” mean?

“Keep it steady” means to maintain a consistent pace, level, or state, avoiding sudden changes or fluctuations.

Which is correct, “keep it steady” or “stay steady”?

Both “keep it steady” and “stay steady” are correct, but they have slightly different nuances. “Keep it steady” implies maintaining something at a constant level, while “stay steady” suggests remaining stable or balanced. You can also consider "remain stable".

What are some alternatives to saying “keep it steady”?

Alternatives include "maintain a consistent pace", "hold firm", or "stay the course", depending on the specific context.