keep track

USAGE SUMMARY

"keep track" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to say that you are aware of something, or that you have recorded something. For example: "I'm going to keep track of my daily expenses in this notebook."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Who can keep track?

The New York Times - Arts

To keep track.

The New Yorker

We keep track by counting.

The New Yorker

9) Keep track of time.

The Guardian

I can barely keep track".

The New Yorker

You have to keep track.

The New York Times - Magazine

I can't keep track".

Wikipedia

Keep track.

WikiHow

Keep track of things.

WikiHow

Keep track of classmates.

WikiHow

Keep track of deadlines.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "keep track" in your writing, specify what exactly you are tracking. Providing context enhances clarity and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "keep track" with abstract nouns when a more direct verb is more appropriate. For example, instead of "keep track of your happiness", consider "cultivate your happiness" or "cherish your happiness".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep track" functions as a phrasal verb, acting as a verb construction, where 'keep' takes the function of the verb and 'track' as the particle/preposition. Ludwig AI confirms its proper and common usage across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

60%

News & Media

30%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "keep track" is a versatile and frequently used phrasal verb meaning to monitor, record, or maintain awareness of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. It appears most commonly in Wiki and News & Media sources. While it has a neutral register, it's important to specify what you're tracking to ensure clarity. Alternatives like "monitor" or "track" can be used depending on the specific context. Be mindful of using more direct verbs when "keep track" is paired with abstract nouns. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use the term "keep track" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

track

A more concise alternative, focusing on observing the progress or development.

keep a record of

More formal phrasing emphasizing the act of writing down or documenting information.

log

A concise alternative suggesting a written record of events or data.

monitor

Single-word alternative focusing on the act of observing and checking progress over a period.

note

Highlights the act of registering something in a written form for future reference.

keep an eye on

Informal phrasing suggesting vigilance and attentiveness.

follow closely

Highlights the act of paying close attention to something's progression.

stay informed about

Emphasizes remaining up-to-date and aware of new developments.

maintain awareness of

Formal and emphasizes the continuous consciousness of something.

be mindful of

Suggests a state of being conscious and attentive to something, often with a focus on potential problems.

FAQs

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

You can use "keep track" to mean monitoring or recording something. For example, "I need to "monitor" my expenses to "not waste money"." or "It's important to "track" your progress on this project".

What are some alternatives to "keep track"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "monitor", "track", "keep a record of", or "follow closely".

Is it correct to say "kept track" instead of "keep track"?

Yes, "kept track" is the past tense form of "keep track". You would use "kept track" when referring to something you monitored or recorded in the past.

What's the difference between "keep track" and "lose track"?

"Keep track" means to maintain awareness or a record of something, while "lose track" means to no longer be aware of or have a record of something. They are antonyms.