keep the system running

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keep the system running" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to maintaining the functionality or operation of a system, such as in technology or organizational contexts. Example: "To ensure uninterrupted service, we need to keep the system running during the maintenance period."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

City officials kept the system running for 17 months long past the initially planned six-month trial period but eventually concluded that low user rates didn't justify the $1,800 per month it took to keep the system running.

Forbes

"It's the minimum number to keep the system running".

The New York Times

Keep the system running with the malware running in the state it was when detected.

Cornell University

Computers would track scooter pickups and drop-offs to keep the system running smoothly.

The New York Times

For now, these companies are also providing money to keep the system running.

The New York Times - Tech

The fare increases and cutbacks are meant to keep the system running next year.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

But Paradise also received $1.2 million to add raised rumble strips on its main arteries, improve drainage, widen shoulders and upgrade traffic signals to improve safety, including battery backups to keep the systems running if the power went out.

Los Angeles Times

The result is an agency that is slow to respond to crisis (like the billing system debacle in 2013), can't raise the money needed to upgrade aging pipes and power lines, and can't hire the workers needed to keep the systems running.

Los Angeles Times

The result is an agency that is slow to respond to crisis (like the billing system debacle from 2013), can't raise the money needed to upgrade aging pipes and power lines and can't hire the workers needed to keep the systems running.

Los Angeles Times

For Bowden, Mexico is a place where narcotics money can buy anything, including access to the highest reaches of government, and where the flow of drugs is one of the only things keeping the economy afloat, while America with its insatiable demand and its ready cash is the engine that keeps the system running.

The New Yorker

For Bowden, Mexico is a place where narcotics money can buy anything, including access to the highest reaches of government, and where the flow of drugs is one of the only things keeping the economy afloat, while America — with its insatiable demand and its ready cash — is the engine that keeps the system running.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing technical documentation, use "keep the system running" to simply convey the need for ongoing maintenance and operational support.

Common error

Avoid using "keep the system running" in casual conversation or informal writing. It's often more appropriate to use simpler phrases like "maintain operations" or "stay functional".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep the system running" functions as a directive or descriptive phrase, indicating the necessity or action of maintaining operational continuity. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability. Examples show its use in diverse contexts, from computer systems to organizational structures.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

21%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

7%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "keep the system running" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression for conveying the need to maintain operational continuity. As confirmed by Ludwig, it appears most frequently in news, science, and academic contexts, indicating its relevance across various domains. While acceptable in neutral settings, its professional and technical associations make it particularly suited for formal discussions on infrastructure or organizational management. For alternative phrasing, consider options like "maintain system operation" or "ensure system functionality".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

maintain system operation

Formal rephrasing using more technical vocabulary.

sustain the system's functionality

Emphasizes preserving the capabilities of the system.

ensure the system continues to function

Highlights the ongoing nature of the system's operation.

preserve system uptime

Focuses on minimizing downtime and maximizing operational availability.

keep the process operational

Replaces 'system' with 'process', suitable when referring to a specific workflow.

continue system execution

Emphasizes the active performance of the system.

uphold system performance

Implies maintaining a certain level of efficiency or quality.

support system activity

Highlights the act of providing resources or assistance to the system.

facilitate continuous system work

Emphasizes making it easier for the system to operate without interruption.

prevent system failure

Focuses on proactive measures to avoid system breakdown.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "keep the system running"?

Alternatives include "maintain system operation", "ensure system functionality", or "sustain the system's functionality".

Is "keep the system running" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "keep the system running" is acceptable in formal and technical writing, especially when discussing ongoing maintenance or operational requirements. However, consider using "maintain system operation" for a more formal tone.

What does it mean to "keep the system running"?

To "keep the system running" means to ensure that a particular system, whether it's a computer network, a business process, or a mechanical operation, continues to function properly and without interruption.

What's the difference between "keep the system running" and "improve the system"?

"Keep the system running" implies maintaining the current functionality, while "improve the system" suggests making enhancements or upgrades to increase its efficiency or performance. They are related but focus on different goals.