keep responsibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keep responsibility" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward.
It could be used in contexts where someone is advised to maintain or uphold their responsibilities. Example: "In order to succeed in this role, you must learn to keep responsibility for your tasks and deadlines."

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

This sounds like an unnecessary complication that would keep responsibility diffused.

The New York Times

American will keep responsibility for the three pension plans itself, paying these retirees their benefits in full.

The New York Times

Either way, the party organizing the Senate has to keep responsibility in its own hands for handling legislative business.

The New York Times

The American forces will keep responsibility for the volatile eastern region that abuts some of the most lawless areas in Pakistan.

The New York Times

The case became a rallying point for nationalists who wanted Manila to abrogate an agreement that allowed American troops in the Philippines and that the United States said allowed it to keep responsibility for Corporal Smith.

The New York Times

Trainers actively rehearsed and observed videotapes about how to solve challenging life situations, build engaging relationships, and keep responsibility for change with the mother.

BMC Psychiatry

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

By contrast, a majority of 57% say that councils have an important educational role, and "should keep responsibilities in relation to schools".

The Guardian

Clarke kept responsibility for the legislation despite moving in the reshuffle.

The Guardian

The best political leaders kept responsibility for social care close to home and keep close to their communities, he says.

The Guardian

Now, if -- and they want to keep this responsibility.

The New York Times

Principals keep sole responsibility for evaluation, without help from coaches.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "keep responsibility", ensure the context clearly indicates that the subject already possesses the responsibility and needs to maintain it. Using stronger synonyms like "maintain accountability" might enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "keep responsibility" when the intention is to initially assign responsibility. Instead, use phrases like "assign responsibility" or "delegate responsibility" for initial assignments.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep responsibility" functions as a verb phrase indicating the preservation of a duty or obligation. Although Ludwig suggests the phrase may sound slightly awkward, example sentences demonstrate its use in contexts where maintaining accountability is crucial.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

17%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "keep responsibility" is a verb phrase that suggests the continued maintenance of a duty or obligation. While Ludwig indicates that the phrase may sound slightly awkward, its usage is grammatically acceptable and understandable. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts, but also appears in scientific sources. For enhanced clarity, stronger synonyms like "maintain accountability" could be considered. When assigning initial responsibility, it's more appropriate to use "take responsibility" instead. Overall, while not the most elegant phrase, "keep responsibility" effectively conveys the idea of sustaining accountability. Remember, Ludwig's analysis suggests considering alternative phrasing for optimal impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

maintain responsibility

This alternative uses "maintain" instead of "keep", suggesting a sustained effort in upholding responsibility.

retain responsibility

Using "retain" implies holding onto responsibility that one already possesses.

uphold responsibility

This alternative emphasizes the act of supporting and defending one's responsibility.

hold onto responsibility

This phrase suggests clinging tightly to one's responsibility.

bear responsibility

This alternative implies carrying the weight of responsibility.

shoulder responsibility

Similar to "bear responsibility", this suggests taking on the burden of responsibility.

preserve responsibility

This emphasizes the act of maintaining responsibility in its original state.

assume responsibility

This alternative focuses on the act of taking responsibility, which may or may not be ongoing.

exercise responsibility

This phrase implies actively using one's responsibility in decision-making and actions.

discharge responsibility

This focuses on fulfilling or completing one's responsibility.

FAQs

What does "keep responsibility" mean?

The phrase "keep responsibility" means to continue to have or maintain a duty or obligation. It suggests retaining control and accountability over something.

What can I say instead of "keep responsibility"?

You can use alternatives like "maintain responsibility", "retain responsibility", or "uphold responsibility" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "keep responsibility"?

While grammatically correct, the phrase "keep responsibility" can sound slightly awkward. Alternatives like "maintain accountability" might offer greater clarity and impact.

What's the difference between "keep responsibility" and "take responsibility"?

"Keep responsibility" implies maintaining an existing duty, whereas "take responsibility" means to accept a new duty or acknowledge fault. You "take responsibility" for an action, and "keep responsibility" for managing its consequences.