kept pending

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "kept pending" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is used to indicate that something has been delayed or postponed until a later time. For example, "Her application was kept pending until the board had time to review her credentials."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

It has kept pending long-overdue verdicts by a controversial tribunal set up to look at charges of genocide and other crimes committed during Bangladesh's war of independence from Pakistan.

The Economist

Joseph Zwilling, a spokesman for the archdiocese, said the objects might be at a warehouse on Staten Island where such items were kept pending their placement in other churches.

The New York Times

In a letter to state officials, however, Amtrak said it was simply "following its ordinary train set maintenance practice" of moving out-of-service equipment to Delaware, where they would be kept "pending the resolution of our disputes".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

But he added that it's vital for the court to keep pending cases moving.

The Guardian

But he added that it's important to keep pending cases moving.

The Guardian

Although the wrangling between the executive and legislative branches usually results in a compromise, the Justice Department has often fought to keep pending prosecutions from prying eyes in Congress.

The New York Times - Sports

Large areas of the third floor and basement have been kept empty pending a resolution of the building's fate.

The New York Times

Lt. Col. Steve Boylan, a U.S. military spokesman, said any photographs, documents or other evidence gathered by the Americans would be kept private pending investigations.

The Washington Post

But they say if there has already been an inspection of his laptop and other equipment it should not be disclosed to any third party, domestic or foreign and should be kept secure pending the outcome of the legal action.

The Guardian

The Capitals kept another pending unrestricted free agent from hitting the open market on July 1 by striking a deal with Kempny, a trade-deadline addition who played a crucial role in the first title in franchise history.

The Washington Post

The delays in reaching financial terms and getting regulatory approval of the deal kept it pending while the credit markets seized up and banks, once eager to fund ever bigger leveraged buyouts, got skittish.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "kept pending" when you want to emphasize that something has been intentionally delayed until a specific condition is met or a future event occurs.

Common error

Avoid using "kept pending" excessively in passive constructions, as it can make your writing sound weak. Opt for more active verbs when possible to create a stronger, more direct statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "kept pending" functions as a verbal phrase, specifically a passive construction, indicating a state of delay or postponement. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, it suggests that something remains in a state of suspension until a future event or condition is met.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "kept pending" is a grammatically sound and relatively common way to describe something that has been deliberately delayed, often with a specific purpose or condition in mind. According to Ludwig AI, it indicates a state of suspension until a future event. While versatile, it leans toward neutral to formal registers, frequently appearing in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity and avoid overusing passive voice to maintain a strong writing style. Consider alternatives like "remained unresolved" or "stayed in abeyance" for nuanced meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remained unresolved

Emphasizes the lack of resolution.

stayed in abeyance

Suggests a temporary suspension.

held in suspension

Highlights a temporary pause or deferral.

left outstanding

Focuses on the unfinished nature.

remained open

Implies the possibility of future action.

deferred

Directly indicates a postponement.

postponed

Simple and direct synonym for delayed.

delayed

General term for causing something to occur later.

left in limbo

Emphasizes uncertainty and indefinite delay.

shelved temporarily

Indicates a temporary removal from consideration.

FAQs

How can I use "kept pending" in a sentence?

You can use "kept pending" to indicate that something has been delayed or postponed. For example, "The decision was kept pending until further information was available."

What is a good alternative to "kept pending"?

Alternatives include "remained unresolved", "stayed in abeyance", or "deferred", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "kept pending" or "held pending"?

Both "kept pending" and "held pending" are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably in many contexts. The choice often depends on personal preference or stylistic considerations.

What does it mean when something is "kept pending"?

When something is "kept pending", it means that it is being deliberately held back or delayed, usually until a later time or until certain conditions are met. It implies a temporary state of suspension.