keep nagging

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'keep nagging' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express someone's persistent requests or demands for action, or to express a situation of someone repeatedly complaining. For example: "My mom kept nagging me to clean my room until I finally gave in and did it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

In the long history of intellectuals worrying about democracy and its failings, two basic fears keep nagging away.

The Guardian

I keep nagging James Clutton at Opera Holland Park to stage a production, but I don't think he's taking the bait.

The Guardian - Music

"If you keep nagging them it is a lot more likely they'll say yes!" Westergard had a nifty tip on the crossover of traditional press and social media.

The Guardian

At one point, while trying to cut off her own head with an electric carving knife, she must scream out lines on the order of "Why must you keep nagging me?" and "Can't you see that I hate you?" The film's dialogue always misses some of the intensity of the images.

The New York Times

It's a mile from any of us.' So will he try to expand the concept, roll it out across the country, keep nagging the relevant government departments, as he did so successfully with school dinners, or is he just going to walk away?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And then I wonder if you think, But I'm really feeling 58.3% like having a cupcake for breakfast, but then your mom says, "I don't care if you're a fancy statistician with a Times blog and Seattle green-architect eyeglass frames, you still need something heart-healthy to start your day," but then you tell her, "Mom, if you keep nagging me I will never let you meet my new boyfriend, Matt Bomer".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Miliband kept nagging.

The Guardian

But the question kept nagging.

The New York Times - Books

Still, the Tehran photo kept nagging.

The New York Times

The wife keeps nagging me to drink more water.

The New Yorker

His situation was desperate, but a thought kept nagging him.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "keep nagging" to describe persistent and often annoying requests or reminders. Be mindful of the recipient's perspective and consider whether a more tactful approach might be more effective.

Common error

Avoid using "keep nagging" too frequently, as it can make your writing sound repetitive and monotonous. Vary your language by using synonyms or rephrasing your sentences to convey the same meaning in a more engaging way.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep nagging" functions as a verb phrase, indicating a continuous or repeated action of persistently bothering or urging someone. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in describing persistent requests or thoughts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "keep nagging" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe persistent requests or reminders, as confirmed by Ludwig. While its usage spans across various contexts, it is most prevalent in news and media. Given its informal tone, it's advisable to use it judiciously in formal settings. Ludwig’s examples, sourced from reputable publications, offer a clear understanding of its application. The term carries a slight negative connotation, emphasizing the annoying nature of persistent reminders. To enhance writing, consider alternatives such as "persistently bother" or "repeatedly urge" for more formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nag incessantly

Inversion maintains meaning but emphasizes the manner of nagging.

badger relentlessly

This alternative highlights the annoyance factor and persistence.

incessantly pester

Implies an irritating and relentless form of nagging.

continually badger

Suggests a more aggressive and bothersome form of persistence.

persistently bother

Emphasizes the annoying aspect of repeated actions.

constantly pressure

Focuses on the application of continuous influence.

unremittingly press

Underscores the unwavering nature of the pressure.

repeatedly urge

Highlights the act of encouragement or insistence.

relentlessly hound

Conveys a sense of pursuit and harassment.

persistently importune

Suggests a formal and somewhat old-fashioned way of constantly requesting.

FAQs

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

You can use "keep nagging" to describe someone persistently reminding or asking another person to do something. For example, "My conscience "kept nagging at me" to apologize after the argument".

What are some alternatives to "keep nagging"?

Alternatives to "keep nagging" include "persistently bother", "constantly pressure", or "repeatedly urge", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "keep nagging"?

It is suitable when describing repeated, often irritating, requests or reminders. However, consider the tone, as it can sound negative. Use it when the persistence is notable or perhaps excessive.

Is "keep nagging" more formal or informal?

"Keep nagging" is generally considered informal. In more formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "repeatedly request" or "persistently inquire".