keeping a close watch

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keeping a close watch" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to monitoring someone or something carefully and attentively. Example: "The security team is keeping a close watch on the premises to ensure safety during the event."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Ms. Colbrun said the agency was keeping a close watch on 3-D printers.

The New York Times

We are keeping a close watch on the market in India.

The New York Times

"One of us is always here, keeping a close watch on things," Mr. Garofalo said.

The New York Times

Cook until browned and sizzling, baste and turn, keeping a close watch.

The New York Times - Magazine

The European Food Standards Authority is keeping a close watch on developments.

The Guardian

"The S.N.B. is keeping a close watch on developments on the foreign exchange market and on financial markets.

The New York Times

We will be keeping a close watch on the progress Google makes and will follow up with an extensive audit.

Independent

I would say the scientists are not worried about it, but they are keeping a close watch on it.

The Guardian

But in the meantime, health workers are keeping a close watch on 184 people who may have been infected.

The New York Times - Health

Keeping a close watch on terrorists trying to get into Canada, that's a big issue with us.

The Guardian

He also addressed the housing market, warning the bank was keeping a close watch on the leverage in the system.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "keeping a close watch", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being monitored and why. This adds clarity and relevance to your writing.

Common error

While "keeping a close watch" is widely applicable, avoid using it excessively in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "watching carefully" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keeping a close watch" functions as a verbal phrase. It typically modifies a verb or clause, indicating the manner in which an action is performed. Ludwig AI examples show it describes the act of carefully monitoring something or someone.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

81%

Formal & Business

9%

Science

7%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "keeping a close watch" is a very common and grammatically correct verbal phrase used to convey vigilance and careful monitoring. Ludwig AI analysis indicates its prevalence in news and media, as well as business contexts, with a neutral register suitable for various communication styles. While versatile, writers should consider simpler alternatives in informal settings. When using this phrase, clarity and context are crucial to ensure the message is well delivered. Alternatives phrases include "monitoring carefully", "observing attentively", or "watching carefully" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

closely monitoring

It is a synonym and shorter version of the expression.

watching carefully

Simplifies the phrase while retaining the core meaning of careful observation.

monitoring carefully

Emphasizes the act of monitoring with attention to detail, replacing the watch aspect with a more active verb.

observing attentively

Focuses on the observational aspect with an emphasis on attentiveness, offering a slightly more formal tone.

keeping under surveillance

Implies a more formal or investigative context, suggesting a systematic observation.

vigilantly tracking

Highlights the active tracking aspect with a strong sense of vigilance.

closely supervising

Suggests a position of authority and oversight, adding a layer of management to the observation.

maintaining vigilance

Emphasizes the sustained effort of being watchful, shifting from the action of watching to the state of being vigilant.

paying close attention

Focuses on the mental effort of paying attention rather than the physical act of watching.

scrutinizing meticulously

Highlights a thorough and detailed examination, suggesting a deeper level of inspection.

FAQs

How can I use "keeping a close watch" in a sentence?

"Keeping a close watch" is used to express vigilant monitoring. For example, "The security team is "keeping a close watch" on the building during the event".

What are some alternatives to "keeping a close watch"?

Alternatives include "monitoring carefully", "observing attentively", or "watching carefully", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "keeping a close watch" or "maintaining a close watch"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "Keeping a close watch" emphasizes the action of watching, while "maintaining a close watch" stresses the continuity of the observation.

What is the difference between "keeping a close watch" and "keeping a tight watch"?

"Keeping a close watch" implies careful and attentive observation. "Keeping a tight watch" suggests stricter or more controlled monitoring, often in situations requiring heightened security.