used to keep

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "used to keep" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a habitual action or a function that something served in the past. Example: "The old barn was used to keep the horses safe from the storm."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"My grandma used to keep axolotls".

The New Yorker

She used to keep the chickens here.

Independent

He added, "I used to keep everything.

The New Yorker

(It's used to keep things very cold).

The New Yorker

This is used to keep time.

MIT Technology Review

Gas shielding was used to keep the work gas pure.

Surface and Coatings Technology

It could be used to keep them alive.

The Guardian

I used to keep every card from every show.

The Guardian

Several techniques are used to keep things looking right.

The New York Times - Tech

She used to keep an activity-packed teenage schedule.

The New York Times

"Decreasing prices used to keep out alternative fuels.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "used to keep", ensure that the context clearly indicates a past habit or state that is no longer current. This helps avoid ambiguity and ensures clarity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "used to keep" when describing current habits or states. This phrase specifically refers to past practices, so use present tense verbs for current actions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "used to keep" functions as a verb phrase indicating a past habitual action or state. It is used to describe something that was done or maintained regularly in the past, but is no longer the case. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "used to keep" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe past habits or states. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's essential to ensure the context clearly indicates a past practice. Remember to use the correct tense and consider more formal alternatives for professional or academic writing. By avoiding common errors and following best practices, you can effectively use "used to keep" in your writing to convey information about past routines or situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

had a habit of keeping

Directly states that someone had a habit of keeping something.

was in the habit of retaining

Similar to the previous phrase, but uses more formal language.

once held

A more concise way to express the act of holding something in the past.

formerly retained

Indicates that something was kept in the past but is no longer.

customarily maintained

Emphasizes a regular practice of maintaining something in the past, using more formal language.

in the past, would safeguard

Focuses on the act of safeguarding something in the past.

habitually preserved

Highlights the act of preserving something as a past habit.

would regularly store

Focuses on the action of storing something habitually in the past.

historically conserved

Emphasizes the historical aspect of conserving something.

previously possessed

Stresses the act of having something in one's possession in the past.

FAQs

How can I use "used to keep" in a sentence?

Use "used to keep" to describe a past habit or action that is no longer practiced. For example: "She "used to keep" a diary when she was younger, but she doesn't anymore."

What's the difference between "used to keep" and "use to keep"?

"Used to keep" is the correct form to indicate a past habit. "Use to keep" is grammatically incorrect. Remember to include the 'd' at the end of "used".

What can I say instead of "used to keep"?

You can use alternatives like "formerly retained", "once held", or "had a habit of keeping" depending on the specific context.

Is "used to keep" formal or informal?

"Used to keep" is generally considered neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though more formal alternatives might be preferred in academic or professional writing.