keep time

USAGE SUMMARY

"keep time" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it to refer to following a set schedule, or keeping track of the time that has elapsed. For example, "We must keep time in order to ensure we finish on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Keeping an even rhythm will help you keep time with others.

WikiHow

Walker couldn't keep time.

The New York Times - Magazine

What device could keep time that precisely?

The Economist

They do not keep time records.

The New York Times

This is used to keep time.

MIT Technology Review

And, here's how we keep time.

The Washington Post

"Most orchestras don't need anyone to keep time".

The New York Times - Arts

"We don't even have to keep time anymore," he said.

The New York Times

Cranes from the Miocene would keep time with cranes today.

The Guardian

Meanwhile, Ben Thatcher does more than keep time.

The Guardian - Music

Two swinging pendulums of unequal weights do not keep time.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In time-sensitive scenarios, make sure that all participants are able to "keep time" with the task.

Common error

Avoid using "keep time" when you mean to describe how time is spent. "Keep time" refers to measuring or maintaining rhythm or schedule, whereas "spend time" relates to how someone occupies their time.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep time" primarily functions as a verb phrase. It describes the action of maintaining a consistent rhythm or tempo, or the ability to measure the passage of time accurately, as Ludwig examples show.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "keep time" is a versatile phrase that refers to maintaining rhythm, measuring duration, or sticking to a schedule. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various fields, including music, science, and general time management. While seemingly straightforward, it's essential to differentiate its meaning from similar phrases like "spend time" or "manage time". By understanding its specific contexts and common errors, you can use "keep time" effectively in your writing and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

maintain the rhythm

Focuses specifically on rhythmic accuracy, omitting the broader sense of managing time.

regulate the tempo

Specifically addresses adjusting speed in music or other timed activities.

stick to the timeline

Focuses on adherence to a predefined temporal plan or project schedule.

adhere to the schedule

Emphasizes sticking to a pre-set plan, unlike general time management.

stay on track

Highlights progress according to a timeline, less about rhythmic precision.

synchronize movements

Emphasizes aligning actions in time with others, adding a coordination element.

manage the duration

Implies actively controlling how long something lasts, slightly more active than simply “keeping time”.

observe the duration

Focuses on respecting a set amount of time, not necessarily rhythmic aspects.

pace oneself

Implies managing one's energy over time, differing from external time management.

be punctual

Highlights arriving on time, rather than the process of time-keeping.

FAQs

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

You can use "keep time" to describe maintaining a rhythm, as in "The drummer struggled to keep time", or to refer to accurately measuring time, as in "Atomic clocks keep time with remarkable precision".

What does it mean to say someone can't "keep time"?

Saying someone can't "keep time" typically means they have difficulty maintaining a consistent rhythm, especially in music or dance. It implies a lack of coordination or rhythmic awareness.

Is there a difference between "keep time" and "manage time"?

"Keep time" usually refers to maintaining rhythm or measuring duration, whereas "manage time" means organizing and using time effectively to achieve goals. They are distinct concepts, although both relate to time. Consider using "adhere to the schedule" if you want to improve time management.

What are some phrases similar to "keep time" when referring to a watch or clock?

When talking about a device, you can say it "measures time", "tracks time", or "tells time". If you want to emphasize accuracy, use "keeps accurate time". Also, "maintain the rhythm" may be used when referring to a clock or watch.