keep it up

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keep it up" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to encourage someone to continue doing something that they have started. For example: "You've been working hard on this project, keep it up!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Keep it up, Libs.

The New York Times

Keep it up, Alain.

The New Yorker

Keep it up, ladies.

The New York Times

So keep it up!

The Economist

keep it up left.

University of California, Berkeley

Can Lin keep it up?

The New York Times - Sports

"Keep it up," Stevenson said.

The New Yorker

Can Reyes keep it up?

The New York Times

Can they keep it up?

The New York Times

Can he keep it up?

The New York Times

Can I.B.M. keep it up?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "keep it up" to offer encouragement after observing positive behavior or progress. It's suitable for informal settings and conveys a sense of approval and motivation.

Common error

While generally acceptable, avoid using "keep it up" in highly formal or professional communications. Opt for more sophisticated alternatives like "continue the excellent work" or "maintain this level of performance" for a more polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep it up" functions as an imperative, specifically used to encourage someone to continue doing something well. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples where the phrase serves as a motivating remark after positive performance or effort is observed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Academia

20%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "keep it up" is a common and grammatically correct English phrase used for encouragement. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent use in News & Media and Academia. While its register is generally informal, it's widely understood and suitable for many everyday situations. For more formal contexts, consider using alternatives such as "continue the good work" or "maintain this level of performance". Remember to use "keep it up" to positively reinforce ongoing efforts and maintain motivation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

continue the good work

This alternative is a more formal way to express encouragement, emphasizing the positive quality of the work being done.

maintain the pace

This alternative focuses on maintaining the current speed or intensity of effort.

stay on track

This alternative suggests continuing to follow the correct path or plan.

don't stop now

This alternative directly urges someone not to cease their current activity.

persevere

This alternative emphasizes the importance of continuing despite difficulties.

press on

This alternative encourages continued effort and forward movement.

sustain your efforts

This alternative highlights the need to maintain a consistent level of effort.

hold steady

This alternative advises maintaining a consistent course or action, especially in challenging circumstances.

stick with it

This alternative is an informal way of encouraging someone to continue their efforts.

keep pushing

This alternative suggests continuing to exert effort and overcome obstacles.

FAQs

How do I use "keep it up" in a sentence?

You can use "keep it up" to encourage someone to continue doing well. For example, "You're doing a great job on this project, "keep it up"!"

What's a more formal way to say "keep it up"?

In formal settings, you might prefer phrases like "continue the good work" or "maintain this level of performance".

Is "keep it up" appropriate for professional emails?

While "keep it up" is generally acceptable, it may be too informal for certain professional emails. Consider using alternatives like "your efforts are appreciated" or "continue excelling" for a more professional tone.

What can I say instead of "keep it up" to motivate someone?

To motivate someone, you can use phrases like "don't stop now", "you're on the right track", or "persevere".