to keep things fair

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to keep things fair" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase can be used to suggest that a particular process should be carried out in an impartial and equitable manner. For example, "We introduced a system of rotation to keep things fair when it comes to deciding who will do the weekly chores."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

At DealBook, we like to do what we can to keep things fair.

The New York Times

Now imagine that he wants to change the rules -- a necessity, he insists, to keep things fair for everyone.

The New York Times

If roadblocks arise, production teams can confer directly with other teams, and request the aide of un-biased YDC Board members to keep things fair.

Yale University

The Murdoch press have cheerfully abandoned all pretence of impartial reporting and have seamlessly integrated themselves into the Abbott campaign; front page after front page hurled against any chance of an ALP win, with a side-dish of hit pieces on the Greens to keep things fair and balanced.

The Guardian - Opinion

However, it is a fairly robust service that attempts to keep things fair for all involved.

TechCrunch

To keep things fair, non-red haired children who dress up as orangutans will also be allowed free entry.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

To keeps things fair — Rafiq-Omar stresses that fairness is "our core value" — Unmortgage will revalue the property on a monthly basis so you'll always have an up-to-date valuation when increasing your stake.

TechCrunch

You just have to keep things clean".

The New York Times - Food

Down the tech route once more to keep things civil and fair.

Vice

To keep things balanced and fair, the amount of rights a woman should get should depend entirely on her wealth.

Vice

To keep things balanced and fair, the amount of rights a woman should get should depend entirely on her wealth. .

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to keep things fair", ensure the context clearly outlines the specific actions or rules being implemented to achieve fairness. This adds clarity and credibility to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "to keep things fair" without specifying how fairness is being maintained. Simply stating the intention without outlining the method can make your statement seem insincere or lacking in substance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to keep things fair" functions as an infinitive phrase of purpose, often used to introduce or explain the rationale behind a decision, rule, or action. As Ludwig AI suggests, it indicates an intention to ensure impartiality and equity in a given situation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to keep things fair" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to justify actions aimed at maintaining impartiality and equity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and offers examples across diverse contexts, primarily in news and media. While versatile, it's most effective when the specific methods for achieving fairness are clearly outlined. Related phrases like "to maintain fairness" or "to ensure impartiality" can offer nuanced alternatives. Remember, stating an intention to "keep things fair" carries greater weight when accompanied by concrete steps demonstrating how this fairness is being upheld.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to maintain fairness

Focuses on preserving an existing state of fairness rather than the act of ensuring it.

to ensure impartiality

Emphasizes a lack of bias or prejudice.

to promote equity

Highlights the goal of achieving equal outcomes or opportunities.

to level the playing field

An idiomatic expression focusing on creating equal opportunities.

to act justly

Focuses on the action being morally and legally right.

to be equitable

Highlights the quality of being fair and impartial.

to guarantee equal opportunity

Stresses the assurance of the same chances for everyone.

to avoid bias

Focuses on preventing any form of prejudice or favoritism.

to uphold justice

Highlights the act of supporting and defending what is right and fair.

for the sake of equity

Expresses that the reason to act is to achieve equitable outcomes.

FAQs

How can I use "to keep things fair" in a sentence?

You can use "to keep things fair" to introduce an action or decision aimed at ensuring impartiality. For example, "We implemented a rotating schedule "to keep things fair" among team members".

What are some alternatives to "to keep things fair"?

Alternatives include phrases like "to maintain fairness", "to ensure impartiality", or "to promote equity", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always necessary to explain how something is "to keep things fair"?

While not always explicitly required, providing context on how fairness is achieved strengthens your argument and makes your intention more credible. Vague statements about fairness can be perceived as insincere.

Which is more appropriate: "to keep things fair" or "to make things fair"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and usable. "To keep things fair" implies maintaining an existing state of fairness, while "to make things fair" suggests creating fairness where it didn't exist before.