keyed up

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keyed up" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a feeling of anticipation or excitement. For example, "I was so keyed up before the game I couldn't sit still."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

Serra was keyed up, buoyant.

The New Yorker

He is keyed up, searingly focused.

The Guardian - Sport

"That always happens when I get keyed up," he intones.

The New York Times

When it's all over, are you keyed up or depleted?

The New York Times - Magazine

He is tight, keyed up, a perfectionist, a hard worker.

The New Yorker

The players were horribly keyed up within their sealed environment.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

Then, keying up to the audience's laughter, she added, "Right?

Vice

"This may key up people to start thinking about analyzing this type of stuff".

Huffington Post

Instead, key up the romance by planning a dreamy date night that brings you back to your dating days.

Huffington Post

When your solicitor tells you that the sale is completed you can pick the keys up from the estate agent.

The Guardian - Money

(Check out "AV," "Heaven" and "Have Some Fun," which keeps modulating its key up and down a half-step).

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "keyed up" to describe a state of heightened anticipation or excitement, especially before an important event or performance. It effectively conveys a sense of nervous energy.

Common error

While "keyed up" is widely understood, consider using more formal alternatives like "anxious" or "eager" in professional or academic writing to maintain a more appropriate tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keyed up" functions primarily as an adjective, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe a state of heightened emotional arousal, often characterized by a mix of excitement and anxiety. As Ludwig AI points out, it is a common descriptor of nervousness or worry.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Formal & Business

2%

Science

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "keyed up" is a common and correct way to describe a state of heightened excitement or nervousness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely used. While predominantly found in news and media, it can be adapted for various contexts, though more formal options may be preferable in academic or professional writing. Remember to use "keyed up" to effectively communicate that blend of anticipation and nervous energy, and consider the subtle differences between it and similar terms like "anxious" or "excited". Ludwig's examples provide ample context for its proper usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

anxious

Focuses more on the worried or uneasy aspect.

excited

Emphasizes the positive and enthusiastic aspect of anticipation.

nervous

Highlights the feeling of unease or apprehension.

agitated

Suggests a state of restlessness and heightened emotional arousal.

on edge

Implies a state of heightened alertness and tension.

amped up

Suggests a high level of energy and excitement, often before an event.

worked up

Highlights the emotional build-up to a state of excitement or anxiety.

tense

Focuses on the physical and mental strain of anticipation.

in a state of excitement

More formal way to express being excited.

eager

Highlights a strong desire or enthusiasm for something about to happen.

FAQs

How can I use "keyed up" in a sentence?

You can use "keyed up" to describe someone feeling nervous or excited. For example, "She was "keyed up" about the presentation" or "The team was "keyed up" before the game".

What's a good alternative to "keyed up"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "keyed up" include "anxious", "excited", or "nervous". Each carries a slightly different connotation.

Is it appropriate to use "keyed up" in formal writing?

While "keyed up" is acceptable, it may be better to use more formal alternatives like "eager" or "anticipatory" in academic or professional settings.

What is the difference between "keyed up" and "stressed out"?

"Keyed up" often implies excitement or anticipation alongside nervousness, while "stressed out" suggests a more negative state of being overwhelmed and anxious due to pressure or problems.