keep still

USAGE SUMMARY

"keep still" is correct and usable in spoken and written English.
It is usually used to tell someone to stay in one position and not move, usually for a specific reason. Example: "Keep still while I adjust the camera, so I can get a better picture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Keep still!" she yelped.

Independent

"Try to keep still," the woman said.

The New Yorker

So he decides to keep still.

The New Yorker

And he cannot stop, cannot keep still.

The Guardian - Arts

The trio silently withdrew, bidding my friend to keep still.

The New York Times - Books

Mr. McDonald, who is 59, can't seem to keep still.

The New York Times

It would not keep still and would not end; it changed shape and smell.

The New Yorker

But Image Metrics had a limitation: Performers had to stare straight ahead and keep still.

The New York Times

"Habemas Papam," he intoned and they could no longer keep still, clapping and waving small flags.

Independent

As I remember it I can hardly keep still in my seat.

The New York Times - Arts

Whenever I watch or remember it, I find it hard to keep still in my seat.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "keep still" when you need someone to stay in a fixed position, especially for a short period, as when taking a photo or administering first aid.

Common error

Avoid using "keep still" in informal chats where a more relaxed phrase like "hold on" or "wait a sec" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep still" primarily functions as an imperative, directing someone to maintain a fixed position without movement. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. It is frequently used in situations requiring precision or immobility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

28%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

The New Yorker

4%

Huffington Post

3%

The Guardian

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "keep still" is a commonly used and grammatically correct imperative phrase instructing someone to remain stationary. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and provides numerous real-world examples. It finds frequent application in "News & Media", "Science", and "Wiki" contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's important to consider the specific situation when choosing alternative phrasing for casual conversations. By being mindful of the nuances and potential mistakes, you can effectively use "keep still" in your spoken and written communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Hold still

A direct synonym, implying a need for immobility, often in a delicate situation.

Stay put

Suggests remaining in the current location, often for safety or convenience.

Don't move

A command to cease any movement, possibly indicating danger or a need for precision.

Remain motionless

A more formal and scientific way to say keep still.

Freeze

An abrupt command to halt all action, often used in threatening situations.

Stay calm

Focuses on maintaining composure, often in stressful or frightening situations.

Be quiet

Emphasizes silence rather than physical stillness, useful when noise is disruptive.

Keep quiet

Stresses the need to maintain silence.

Hold your position

Common in military or strategic contexts, urging someone to maintain their place.

Stay where you are

Similar to "stay put", emphasizing location and discouraging relocation.

FAQs

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

"Keep still" is generally used as an imperative. For example, you can say, "Keep still while I take your picture" or "The doctor told the patient to keep still during the examination."

What does "keep still" mean?

The phrase "keep still" means to remain in a fixed position without moving. It's often used as a command or request for someone to stay motionless.

What are some alternatives to saying "keep still"?

Some alternatives include "hold still", "stay put", or "don't move", depending on the context.

Is "keep still" formal or informal?

"Keep still" can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It's a straightforward and commonly understood phrase across different settings.