keeps you alert

USAGE SUMMARY

"keeps you alert" is correct English and is often used in written and spoken English.
For example, "Having a stimulating conversation keeps you alert and energized."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

It keeps you alert, it keeps you focused, it makes you understand that you can't exhale.

The New York Times - Sports

The night breeze is moist and the chill of it keeps you alert.

The New York Times

It keeps you alert, part of the world – you're not forever being nostalgic… you don't decline into self-satisfaction.

The Guardian

As a narrator, Beatrice is funny and sympathetic; her voice keeps you alert even when the plot is merely spinning its wheels.

The New York Times - Books

It keeps you alert!

WikiHow

"It keeps you alert and aware of your surroundings.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Fear of failure can keep you alert'.

The Guardian - Sport

Plus it's a less stodgy dessert option to keep you alert all evening.

Independent

It is about a 1950s GP who bumped off widows with barbiturates (one to keep you alert on the beach).

The Guardian - Books

Here, ever-popular yet ever-fiendish, is The Last Word's annual Christmas Quiz, something to keep you alert over the festive season.

Independent

Front and center is a Cadillac-red bottle of 5-Hour Energy, the two-ounce caffeine and vitamin elixir that purports to keep you alert without crashing.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "keeps you alert" when you want to emphasize maintaining a state of readiness or awareness, especially in situations requiring quick reactions or sustained attention. For example, describe a strategy that "keeps you alert" during long drives.

Common error

Avoid using "keeps you alert" excessively in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more sophisticated synonyms like "maintains vigilance" or "promotes attentiveness" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keeps you alert" functions as a predicate in sentences, describing the effect or benefit of a subject, namely its capacity of preventing drowsiness and maintaining a state of readiness and awareness. Ludwig supports this understanding by showing examples in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Sports

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "keeps you alert" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe something that helps maintain wakefulness and attentiveness. As validated by Ludwig, it appears most frequently in news and media contexts, but also has notable presence in wikis and sports-related content. While it isn't particularly formal, it's versatile enough for various situations. For more formal writing, consider synonyms like "maintains vigilance". Remember to use it when describing methods for maintaining focus and avoiding drowsiness, and keep in mind alternative phrases for specific levels of awareness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

maintains high awareness

Highlights the continuous maintenance of high level of awareness

maintains your focus

Focuses on sustained attention rather than general awareness.

keeps you on your toes

Suggests readiness and quick responsiveness to unexpected events.

helps you stay vigilant

Emphasizes watchfulness and being prepared for potential danger.

prevents drowsiness

Specifically targets the avoidance of sleepiness.

promotes attentiveness

Highlights the quality of being observant and responsive.

fosters vigilance

Emphasizes the development of a state of watchfulness

boosts your awareness

Suggests an increase in perception and understanding.

sharpens your senses

Implies enhancing sensory perception to stay alert.

enhances cognitive function

Focuses on improving mental processes related to alertness.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "keeps you alert" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives like "maintains vigilance", "promotes attentiveness", or "enhances awareness" depending on the specific context.

What does it mean when something "keeps you alert"?

When something "keeps you alert", it means it helps you stay awake, focused, and aware of your surroundings. It prevents you from becoming drowsy or inattentive.

Is there a difference between "keeps you awake" and "keeps you alert"?

While similar, "keeps you awake" primarily focuses on preventing sleep, while "keeps you alert" implies maintaining a state of readiness and attentiveness, suggesting a higher level of cognitive engagement. Something can keep you awake without necessarily "keeping you alert".

Can you give me some examples of things that "keep you alert"?

Common examples include caffeine, engaging activities, surprising events, or even a cold breeze. Anything that stimulates your senses and prevents drowsiness can "keep you alert".