keep watch

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keep watch" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used as a command to mean to vigilantly monitor something for any changes or activity. For example, you can use the phrase "Keep watch for any suspicious activity" or "We must keep watch to ensure everyone is safe."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Someone's got to keep watch.

Independent

They keep watch over her for months.

The New York Times - Books

Some 220 correctional officers keep watch.

The New York Times

Keep watch that they do not burn.

The New York Times

Together, they keep watch around the clock.

The New York Times

Plainclothes goons now keep watch on his home.

The Economist

Life guards in yellow T-shirts keep watch.

The Economist

You go ahead and feel it, and I'll keep watch".

The New Yorker

More birds means more eyes to keep watch for hawks.

The New York Times

The broadcasts always ended with encouragement to keep watch.

The Guardian

We are here to keep watch, not to keep.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "keep watch" when you want to emphasize the act of guarding or protecting something, whether it's a physical object or an abstract concept. For example, "We must keep watch over our democracy."

Common error

Avoid using "keep watch" when the context implies simply observing something without any intention of intervention or protection. Instead, use verbs like "observe", "notice", or "see". "Keep watch" implies a proactive role.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep watch" functions as a verb phrase, typically used in the imperative mood to instruct or advise someone to maintain vigilance. Ludwig confirms its correct usage, showcasing its function in guarding or protecting something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Wiki

22%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "keep watch" is a versatile verb phrase that conveys the act of guarding or protecting something by remaining vigilant. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. When using this phrase, remember that it implies a proactive stance and should not be confused with simply observing. Consider alternatives like "maintain vigilance" or "stay alert" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stay alert

Highlights the need to be responsive and quick to react to potential threats.

maintain vigilance

Emphasizes a sustained state of alertness and preparedness.

remain observant

Focuses on the act of noticing and paying attention to details.

be on the lookout

Suggests actively searching for something specific, often something negative.

stand guard

Implies a more formal and active role in protecting a specific location or person.

monitor closely

Highlights the act of tracking something over time, often with the use of technology.

patrol the area

Focuses on the act of regularly moving through an area to ensure its security.

oversee operations

Implies a supervisory role in ensuring that something is done correctly.

provide security

Emphasizes the act of keeping someone or something safe from harm.

exercise oversight

Suggests a formal role in ensuring compliance with regulations or standards.

FAQs

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

You can use "keep watch" in a sentence to mean to vigilantly monitor something for any changes or activity. For example, "Keep watch for any suspicious activity" or "We must keep watch to ensure everyone is safe."

What are some alternatives to using "keep watch"?

You can use alternatives like "maintain vigilance", "stay alert", or "be on the lookout" depending on the specific context.

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

Yes, "kept watch" is the past tense form of "keep watch". Use "kept watch" when referring to an action that occurred in the past, for example: "The security guard kept watch all night."

What's the difference between "keep watch" and "watch over"?

"Keep watch" generally implies maintaining vigilance for potential threats or changes, while "watch over" suggests providing care and protection. While they can sometimes be interchangeable, "watch over" often has a more nurturing or protective connotation.