keep things running smoothly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keep things running smoothly" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to maintaining efficiency or ensuring that processes or operations are functioning without issues. Example: "To ensure the success of the project, we need to keep things running smoothly throughout the entire process."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In case you haven't been keeping track, that's a first for the company and the country, and Cook hopes to keep things running smoothly on the mobile end of things.

TechCrunch

But contracts were adjusted to keep things running smoothly.

The New York Times - Sports

In most people, these systems perform well to keep things running smoothly.

Harvard University

We just try to keep things running smoothly and do what needs to be done.

The New York Times

To keep things running smoothly, there is a staff of 600.

The Guardian

But Mr. Flaherty scoffed at the notion that the managers could keep things running smoothly.

The New York Times

They have a long report that recommends a funding level of $32 billion to keep things running smoothly.

The Economist

Even with privatization, Mr. Malandin says, governments in a pinch must step in anyway to keep things running smoothly.

The New York Times - Travel

As a former prosecutor, Judge Sotomayor was clearly perplexed, but she bent over backward to keep things running smoothly.

The New York Times

The writer describes the Camden family as a "self-cleaning oven," with everyone doing his part to keep things running smoothly.

The New Yorker

In the kitchen, the chalet's cheerful British staff unobtrusively keep things running smoothly, ensuring that their guests are well fed and watered.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "keep things running smoothly", consider the specific context. For instance, in a project management setting, it might mean proactive risk management, while in customer service, it could involve efficient complaint resolution.

Common error

While "keep things running smoothly" is versatile, avoid overuse in highly formal documents. Opt for more precise alternatives like "maintain operational efficiency" or "ensure seamless processes" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep things running smoothly" functions as a verb phrase, often used as an infinitive (to keep things running smoothly) or gerund (keeping things running smoothly). It describes the act of maintaining efficiency and preventing disruptions in a system or process. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Formal & Business

12%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "keep things running smoothly" is a versatile and widely used expression that conveys the idea of maintaining efficiency and preventing disruptions. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, including news, business, and academia. While generally acceptable, writers should consider the specific context and opt for more precise alternatives like "maintain operational efficiency" or "ensure seamless processes" in highly formal documents. Ultimately, this phrase serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive planning and effective execution in maintaining smooth operations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

maintain seamless operations

Focuses on the uninterrupted flow of processes, emphasizing efficiency.

ensure smooth operation

Highlights the act of guaranteeing a problem-free operational state.

facilitate efficient workflow

Emphasizes improving and easing the flow of work.

optimize operational efficiency

Highlights maximizing the effectiveness of operations.

prevent disruptions

Concentrates on proactively stopping interruptions or problems.

streamline processes

Focuses on making processes more efficient and straightforward.

avoid bottlenecks

Highlights the importance of preventing obstructions in a system.

maintain order

Emphasizes the importance of maintaining orderliness and structure.

preserve operational integrity

Focuses on maintaining the stability and functionality of operational systems.

ensure everything functions well

A general expression highlighting ensuring proper functionality.

FAQs

How can I use "keep things running smoothly" in a sentence?

You can use "keep things running smoothly" to describe efforts to maintain efficiency or prevent disruptions. For example: "The team implemented new strategies to "keep things running smoothly" during the transition."

What are some alternatives to "keep things running smoothly"?

Alternatives include "maintain seamless operations", "ensure smooth operation", or "facilitate efficient workflow", depending on the specific context.

Is "keep things running smoothly" too informal for professional writing?

While generally acceptable, consider the formality of your writing. In highly formal documents, more precise phrases like "optimize operational efficiency" or "preserve operational integrity" might be more appropriate.

What does it mean to "keep things running smoothly" in a business context?

In a business context, to "keep things running smoothly" typically means to ensure that all processes and operations are functioning efficiently and without significant issues. This could involve proactive planning, effective communication, and quick problem-solving.