keep up the good work

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keep up the good work" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to encourage someone to continue performing well in their tasks or efforts. Example: "Your presentations have been outstanding this quarter; keep up the good work!"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Keep up the good work, Brian.

Princeton University

"Keep up the good work, Mrs May".

The Guardian

Keep up the good work, brands!

The Guardian - Film

"Keep up the good work," he said.

The New Yorker

"Keep up the good work," said one.

The Washington Post

Keep up the good work, Angus".

The Guardian

Keep up the good work -- and keep us laughing.

The New York Times

To Sarah Palin: Keep up the good work.

The New York Times

Keep up the good work and good luck!

Columbia University

Keep up the good work Aneta, Yifeng, and Nandini!

Yale University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Keep up the good works.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "keep up the good work", be specific about what 'good work' you are referring to. This adds sincerity and shows you've noticed their efforts.

Common error

Avoid using "keep up the good work" excessively, especially if it becomes a routine or empty compliment. Vary your expressions of encouragement to maintain their impact and sincerity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep up the good work" functions as an encouraging interjection. It is used to motivate individuals to continue their positive actions or maintain a high standard of performance. Ludwig confirms its acceptability and broad applicability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Academia

26%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "keep up the good work" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to encourage continued effort and high performance. Ludwig shows that it is used very often in News & Media and Academia. While versatile, it's important to use it sincerely and specifically. Alternative phrases like "continue the excellent work" or "maintain the momentum" can add variety to your communication. Overall, as Ludwig confirms, the phrase is a reliable way to show support and appreciation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

continue the excellent work

Emphasizes the high quality of the work being done.

carry on the good work

A slightly more formal way to express encouragement.

keep up the great effort

Highlights the dedication and exertion involved.

continue to excel

Focuses on maintaining a high level of performance.

sustain the progress

Focuses on the continuation of positive developments.

maintain the momentum

Focuses on keeping the progress going.

stay on track

Emphasizes adherence to the current successful path.

don't stop now

An informal encouragement to persist.

press on

Encouragement to continue despite challenges.

keep going

A simple and direct form of encouragement.

FAQs

How can I use "keep up the good work" in a sentence?

You can use "keep up the good work" to encourage someone to continue their positive actions or performance. For instance, "Your presentations have been excellent; "keep up the good work"!"

What can I say instead of "keep up the good work"?

Alternatives include "continue the excellent work", "maintain the momentum", or "keep up the great effort", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "keep up the good work" in formal settings?

While generally acceptable, in highly formal settings, consider alternatives like "continue to excel" or "carry on the good work" for a slightly more polished tone.

What's the difference between "keep up the good work" and "good job"?

"Good job" acknowledges a past accomplishment, while "keep up the good work" encourages continued effort. The former praises a completed task, the latter motivates ongoing performance. Use the first if it's something finished and the second if the person need to stay on track.