keep them closed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keep them closed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when instructing someone to maintain a state of closure, often referring to doors, eyes, or containers. Example: "During the presentation, please keep them closed to avoid distractions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

"I keep them closed".

The New York Times

Best to keep them closed.

The New Yorker

With no lids to protect her eyes from infection, it is safer to keep them closed.

The New York Times

I asked them to keep them closed and don't open them.

The New York Times

"We have not set up factories to keep them closed," Mannan told the Guardian.

The Guardian

I keep them closed while I work, so that I can concentrate and not do a James Stewart in Rear Window.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

And I keep them close at hand..

Vice

Plants were fertilized three times a week with half-strength Hoagland's solution until dripping throughout the experiment in order to keep them close to field capacity.

BMC Plant Biology

Cat loves her friends and family keep them close to you.

WikiHow

Keep them close to your painting, but give yourself enough room to maneuver comfortably.

WikiHow

Be aware of your belongings and keep them close whenever you're in crowded areas.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone to keep something closed, be specific about the reason. Providing context helps ensure the instruction is understood and followed effectively. For example, "Please keep them closed to prevent contamination."

Common error

Avoid using "keep them closed" without clarifying what "them" refers to. Ambiguity can lead to confusion. Always ensure the context makes it clear what should be kept closed. For example, instead of just saying "keep them closed", specify "keep the windows closed".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep them closed" functions as an imperative instruction. It directs someone to maintain a state of closure, whether referring to physical objects like doors or a more abstract concept, such as eyes. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Wiki

21%

Science

13%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "keep them closed" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to instruct or advise maintaining a state of closure. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is correct and applicable in numerous contexts, from preventing contamination to ensuring privacy. Analysis reveals that while the phrase appears most frequently in News & Media, it is also prevalent in Wiki and Scientific content, demonstrating its broad applicability. To ensure clarity, specify what "them" refers to and provide context for the instruction. Consider alternatives like "maintain their closure" or "ensure they remain shut" depending on the nuances you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

maintain their closure

Emphasizes the act of maintaining a closed state over time.

ensure they remain shut

Focuses on guaranteeing the continuation of a closed state.

leave them sealed

Highlights the state of being sealed, implying a secure closure.

prevent them from opening

Directly addresses the action of preventing something from opening.

secure them shut

Emphasizes the security aspect of keeping something closed.

hold them fast

Suggests a firm and unwavering closure.

retain their sealed condition

Focuses on maintaining the original sealed state.

do not open them

A direct and imperative instruction to avoid opening something.

seal them off

Implies a complete and secure closure, often to isolate something.

fasten them securely

Highlights the secure fastening of something to keep it closed.

FAQs

How can I use "keep them closed" in a sentence?

The phrase "keep them closed" is used to instruct someone to maintain a state of closure. For example, "Please "keep them closed" during the performance" or "Homeowners were advised to "keep them closed" after recent thefts".

What are some alternatives to "keep them closed"?

Some alternatives include "ensure they remain shut", "maintain their closure", or "prevent them from opening", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "keep them closed"?

It's appropriate to use "keep them closed" when you want to instruct or advise someone to maintain a state of closure for a specific reason, such as security, safety, or privacy. The context should clearly indicate what "them" refers to.

What's the difference between "keep them closed" and "leave them shut"?

While both phrases convey a similar meaning, "keep them closed" implies a continuous action of maintaining closure, whereas "leave them shut" suggests a more passive state of allowing something to remain closed without active intervention.