keep under control

USAGE SUMMARY

'keep under control' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize the importance of keeping something (e.g. your emotions) in a managed state. Example: It's important to keep your emotions under control in a professional setting.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

But the caution should also be observed that these are definitely plants to keep under control.

The New York Times

Richard was also skin-popping morphine, which he says he can keep under control.

The New Yorker

"We were thinking it was something the Tunisia government would keep under control.

The New York Times

I feared he would unleash a part of me I spent tremendous discipline and energy to keep under control.

The New York Times

Takes the ball deep and unleashes a hard shot from the angle that Dortmund keeper can't keep under control.

The New York Times

He is very difficult to mark and keep under control and our defence will be hard put to make sure he doesn't score".

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

Nassau County's property taxes have been kept under control.

The New York Times

Intermolecular interactions kept under control via l-lysine moiety.

Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology A: Chemistry

So long, apparently, as the relief is kept under control.

The New York Times

According to Ferrigno, the open-plan office works because the acoustics are kept under control.

The Guardian

My diabetes, I was told, could be kept under control with oral medication.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "keep under control", consider the tone of your writing. It often suggests a situation where something inherently wants to escape control, so ensure this aligns with your intended meaning.

Common error

While "keep under control" is acceptable, using it excessively, especially in formal documents, can sound repetitive. Mix in synonyms like "manage effectively" or "regulate" to improve readability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep under control" functions primarily as a verb phrase, indicating the action of managing or restraining something. As Ludwig AI suggests, its usability is appropriate for emphasizing managing something important.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "keep under control" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe the act of managing or restraining something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. It is particularly prevalent in News & Media and Science. When using this phrase, be mindful of the tone and consider whether synonyms like "manage effectively" or "regulate" might offer more precision. While generally acceptable, overuse in formal writing can reduce readability. Remember to use “keep” or “kept” based on the tense of your sentence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

maintain control over

This alternative emphasizes the act of keeping control that already exists.

hold in check

This alternative conveys the idea of restraining something from progressing or getting out of hand.

keep in check

This alternative conveys the idea of restraining something from progressing or getting out of hand.

exercise control over

This implies actively using control to manage something.

restrain

Similar to 'curb', but may imply a more forceful act of holding something back.

curb

This is a shorter, more direct verb that means to restrain or control.

retain authority over

This phrase stresses the preservation of authority in managing something.

regulate

Implies setting rules and ensuring compliance to maintain control.

manage effectively

Focuses on the efficiency of control, implying skillful handling.

govern

Suggests a more comprehensive and authoritative form of control.

FAQs

How can I use "keep under control" in a sentence?

You can use "keep under control" to describe managing emotions, populations, diseases, and any other things that need to be managed or contained. For example, "It's important to "maintain control over" your emotions in a professional environment".

What are some alternatives to "keep under control"?

Depending on the context, you could use "hold in check", "curb", or "restrain" as alternatives to "keep under control".

Is it better to say "keep under control" or "kept under control"?

The choice between "keep under control" and "kept under control" depends on the tense of your sentence. Use "keep" for present or future tenses and "kept" for past tenses. For example, "We must "hold in check" the expenses this quarter" vs. "We "held in check" the expenses last quarter".

What does it mean to "keep under control"?

To "keep under control" means to manage, restrain, or contain something to prevent it from escalating, becoming unmanageable, or causing problems. It implies that without this effort, the thing in question would be problematic.