keep them separate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keep them separate" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase in a variety of different contexts when you want to emphasize that two things should not be combined or kept together. For example, you might say "When you're preparing the ingredients for the recipe, keep the wet and dry ingredients separate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Ecology and reproductive reach keep them separate.

The Guardian

I prefer to keep them separate".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"You may want to keep them separate".

The New York Times

Many keep them separate, increasing the risk that they fail to communicate or work together properly.

The Economist

"If you want to keep them separate, you should put them in two different organizations".

The New York Times

"The knives slip right in and the pockets keep them separate, so the edges don't burr".

The New York Times

Just keep them separate and toss with a bit of oil before storing in the fridge.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Re-establish investment banks, and keep them separate from commercial banks and stock brokerages.

The New York Times

But there are two different meanings of "bottoming out," and it's important to keep them separate.

The New York Times

The police allowed them to enter the Parliament compound to keep them separate from detractors.

The New York Times

When I cook a meal I like to serve things one by one and keep them separate.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "keep them separate" to describe abstract concepts, ensure the context clearly defines what "them" refers to. For example, "To avoid confusion, keep the project goals and personal preferences separate."

Common error

Avoid using "keep them separate" without clearly specifying what "them" refers to. Ambiguity can lead to misinterpretations. For example, instead of saying "Keep them separate to avoid problems," specify, "Keep the financial records and operational reports separate to avoid problems."

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "keep them separate" is as a directive phrase, providing an instruction or recommendation to maintain a distinction between two or more entities. Ludwig AI highlights its correct and usable nature, across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Wiki

30%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

6%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "keep them separate" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig. It serves as a directive to maintain a distinction between two or more entities across diverse contexts, primarily in News & Media, Wiki and Science. Whether instructing on proper storage, clarifying abstract concepts, or preventing unwanted mixing, this phrase emphasizes the importance of distinction. To ensure clarity, especially with abstract concepts, make sure to define what "them" refers to. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "keep them separate" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

keep apart

A shorter, more direct way of expressing the need for distance.

keep distinct

Emphasizes maintaining a clear difference or contrast.

maintain separation

Focuses on the action of upholding a state of being apart.

do not mix them

A more explicit instruction to avoid combining elements.

segregate them

Implies a more forceful or structured separation.

ensure they are not combined

Highlights the act of guaranteeing non-mixture.

keep isolated

Emphasizes the act of keeping something alone.

hold them back

Suggests restraining something to prevent it from joining something else.

discriminate between them

Highlights a clear distinction, possibly for preferential treatment.

demarcate boundaries

A more formal way of expressing the action of establishing limits to ensure separation.

FAQs

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

You can use "keep them separate" when you want to emphasize that two or more things should be distinct and not combined. For example: "When storing chemicals, it's crucial to keep flammable and corrosive substances separate."

What are some alternatives to "keep them separate"?

You can use alternatives like "maintain separation", "keep apart", or "segregate them" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "keep them separate"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase follows standard English grammar rules and is widely used and understood.

In what contexts is it most appropriate to use "keep them separate"?

It's appropriate in various contexts where you need to emphasize the importance of distinction, such as in cooking, scientific experiments, financial management, or interpersonal relationships. For example: "In cooking, keep the wet and dry ingredients separate until you're ready to combine them."