keep something back

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keep something back" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to withholding information, emotions, or resources from someone or something. Example: "She decided to keep some important details back during the meeting to avoid causing unnecessary panic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Look, I'm with Lemmy – I think you've always got to keep something back from the fans.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"That would be up to investigators why oftentimes they keep something" back, a person familiar with the investigation said.

The New York Times

In both, Atlético appeared to be trying to keep something back, aware of fatigue and seeking to conserve energy, and in both they were caught.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The latter started to close on the run to the third-last, but Moore had kept something back for the uphill run to the line and Ar Mad came home 10 lengths clear.

The Guardian - Sport

"But you also want to hold something back, to keep a little mystery for the listener.

Independent

Keep something wild in reserve.

WikiHow

Keep something in one hand.

WikiHow

Keep something for self defense.

WikiHow

"You can't keep taking the good stuff out of the earth, you have to keep putting something back".

The New York Times

"You have to keep putting something back".

The New York Times

A savvy and sweet man who believed "You have to keep putting something back," Horace gave back in so many ways to ISA, offering his wisdom in service as a board member, his generosity by sponsoring ISA's program for underserved students at Roosevelt Jr/Sr High School, his steadfastness through an unwavering support to the Institute's vital mission and programs.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "keep something back" when you want to emphasize a strategic decision to withhold information or resources for a specific purpose or future moment.

Common error

Avoid using "keep something back" in situations where transparency and complete honesty are expected, such as legal testimonies or critical safety briefings. Use a different construction such as "full disclosure".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep something back" functions as a verb phrase with an adverbial particle, indicating the action of withholding or reserving a portion of something. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, showing its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

29%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "keep something back" is a commonly used phrase that means to intentionally withhold information, resources, or effort. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and is primarily found in news and media contexts. When writing, be mindful of situations where transparency is required, and consider using alternatives like "hold something back" or "reserve something" to fine-tune your message. The phrase's neutral register makes it suitable for various writing styles, though context is key to its appropriate use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hold something back

Similar in meaning, but can also refer to physical restraint.

reserve something

Implies a deliberate act of setting something aside for later use.

withhold something

Focuses on the act of not giving or revealing something.

retain something

Suggests keeping possession of something, not necessarily secret.

keep in reserve

Emphasizes the state of being held for future use or need.

save something for later

Indicates a specific intention to use something at a later time.

conceal something

Focuses on hiding something from view or knowledge.

hide something

A more general term for preventing something from being seen or known.

suppress something

Implies actively preventing something from being expressed or revealed.

sit on something

Informal way of saying to delay or avoid doing something with information or plans.

FAQs

How can I use "keep something back" in a sentence?

You can use "keep something back" to describe withholding information or effort. For example, "The negotiator decided to "keep something back" to gain leverage later in the discussion."

What does "keep something back" mean?

"Keep something back" means to intentionally withhold or reserve a portion of information, resources, or effort. It implies a strategic decision to not fully reveal or expend everything at once.

What are some alternatives to "keep something back"?

Alternatives to "keep something back" include "hold something back", "reserve something", or "withhold something" depending on the specific context.

Is it acceptable to "keep something back" in negotiations?

Whether it's acceptable to "keep something back" depends on the ethical and professional standards of the negotiation. While it can be a tactic, it should be used judiciously and with consideration for potential consequences on trust and relationships.