to keep things on track

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to keep things on track" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the importance of maintaining focus or ensuring that progress is made towards a goal or objective. Example: "In our meetings, we need to establish clear agendas to keep things on track and ensure we meet our deadlines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

He describes one of the imperatives for AOL Ventures as "to keep things on track that have not been on track".

TechCrunch

Armstrong added that one of the purposes of AOL Ventures is "to keep things on track that have not been on track.

TechCrunch

That has been really difficult, but with the help of counselling I have managed to keep things on track.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

One of his main worries is that Cisco does not have sufficiently replicable processes in place to keep things on track.

The Economist

Further, there is wide use of drugs to medicate boys, especially, against their natural tendency toward action, the better to "keep things on track".

The New York Times - Magazine

The challenge for the civil service will be to keep things on track while itself undergoing change on a major scale.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

None of this might seem like it should make a dramatic difference, but Kashen suggested that the simple act of having an agenda and a clock in front of you can really help keep things on-track.

TechCrunch

We make schedules and checklists to try and keep things on track.

HuffPost

Companies often pull together teams made up of technologists and front-line managers to continuously test and refine paths to progress, remove obstructions, and keep things on track.

Harvard Business Review

"It takes a very strong mind to focus that intently and keep things on track all the time". Thursday, as he skates to music from Rimsky-Korsakov's "Scheherazade," Lysacek will count on that regularity -- everything neat, everything impeccable -- to overcome the more impressive jumping with which Plushenko piles up points.

Los Angeles Times

Will private sector Daimler and Lagardre be enough to keep things on a rational track?

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When managing projects, use "to keep things on track" to emphasize the importance of consistent monitoring and adjustments to stay aligned with objectives.

Common error

While useful, avoid repetitive use of "to keep things on track". Vary your language with alternatives like "to stay on course" or "to maintain momentum" to enhance readability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to keep things on track" primarily functions as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose. It is often used to describe actions taken to ensure that a process or plan remains aligned with its intended goals. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it indicates maintaining focus and direction.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

30%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to keep things on track" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to emphasize the importance of maintaining progress and focus. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts, including news, academia, and business. While versatile, it's advisable to vary your language with alternatives such as "to stay on course" or "to maintain momentum" to avoid repetition. Remember to employ proactive strategies like setting reminders and prioritizing tasks to effectively "to keep things on track" in both professional and personal endeavors.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to stay on course

Emphasizes adherence to a planned route or strategy.

to maintain momentum

Highlights the importance of sustaining forward progress.

to ensure progress

Focuses on guaranteeing that advancement is made.

to guide effectively

Suggests providing direction and leadership to achieve goals.

to steer towards success

Implies actively directing efforts toward a favorable outcome.

to keep the ball rolling

An informal expression that emphasizes the continuation of an activity or project.

to remain focused

Highlights the need to stay concentrated on the task at hand.

to preserve order

Highlights the importance of maintaining a structured environment.

to stick to the plan

Focuses on adhering to an established itinerary or set of guidelines.

to manage effectively

Highlights the need to successfully administer an activity.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "to keep things on track"?

Alternatives include "to stay on course", "to maintain momentum", or "to ensure progress", each slightly altering the emphasis.

What does "to keep things on track" mean in project management?

In project management, "to keep things on track" means ensuring that the project progresses according to the planned schedule and budget, addressing any deviations promptly.

Is "to keep things on track" formal enough for business writing?

Yes, "to keep things on track" is suitable for most business contexts. However, for very formal reports, consider alternatives like "to ensure adherence" to protocols.

What are some common ways "to keep things on track" in daily life?

Common strategies include setting reminders, creating checklists, and prioritizing tasks to "to keep things on track" with personal goals and responsibilities.