we should keep that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we should keep that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when suggesting that something should be retained or maintained, often in a discussion or decision-making context. Example: "After reviewing the proposals, I believe we should keep that idea for further development."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

We should keep that reason at the top of any reform agenda.

The New York Times

Mr. Rock continued: "I think we should pay attention to what's going on, but I think we should keep that in our families and our communities.

The New York Times

We should keep that dream alive.

Huffington Post

But we should keep that love in check.

Huffington Post

Some people are now looking at ISIS and saying in comparison, "Hmmm, maybe we should keep that serial killer as a president".

Huffington Post

As the middle class continues to decline and the gap between the very rich and everyone else grows wider, we should keep that in mind as Congress debates the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), the largest trade agreement in American history.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

He should keep that promise.

The New York Times

"If we just take one part of it and attack it – and if that strategy works – we should keep using that strategy".

The Guardian

Similarly, when two promises conflict, it often seems clear which one we should keep, and that intuition can often be explained by the amount of harm that would be caused by breaking each promise.

SEP

There's no such thing as a free lunch, and we all should keep that in mind.

The New York Times

In whatever we say and do, we should keep returning to that vital distinction.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we should keep that" to reinforce a previously mentioned point, decision, or idea to emphasize its importance and prevent it from being overlooked.

Common error

Avoid using "we should keep that" without clearly establishing what "that" refers to. Over-reliance on "that" without proper context can lead to confusion and weaken your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we should keep that" functions as a recommendation or suggestion. It expresses the idea that something previously mentioned or understood should be retained, maintained, or remembered. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we should keep that" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that suggests retaining or maintaining something already under consideration. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is versatile enough for various contexts, though more commonly found in news, scientific, and informal settings. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly defines what "that" refers to in order to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "we ought to retain that" or "we should hold onto that" can be used for subtle variations in meaning or tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we ought to retain that

Replaces 'should' with 'ought to', indicating a sense of obligation or advisability.

we should hold onto that

Emphasizes preserving or maintaining something, adding a sense of possession.

it would be wise to keep that

Introduces the idea of wisdom or prudence in retaining something.

we'd better keep that

Uses a contraction for 'we had better', suggesting a stronger recommendation or warning.

let's not discard that

Focuses on avoiding the act of getting rid of something.

we should preserve that

Highlights the act of maintaining something in its original state.

it is important to remember that

Shifts the focus to remembering or considering something.

we must not forget that

Emphasizes the necessity of remembering something.

we should bear that in mind

Indicates that something should be taken into consideration.

we should not overlook that

Highlights the importance of not ignoring something.

FAQs

How can I use "we should keep that" in a sentence?

Use "we should keep that" to suggest retaining a previously mentioned idea, item, or course of action. For example: "The budget proposal includes several cuts, but "we should keep that" provision for research funding."

What is a more formal alternative to "we should keep that"?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "we ought to retain that" or "it is advisable to maintain that". These options provide a similar meaning but with a more elevated register.

Is it grammatically correct to say "we should keep that"?

Yes, "we should keep that" is grammatically correct. It follows the standard structure of a modal verb ("should") followed by a verb ("keep") and a demonstrative pronoun ("that").

What are some common mistakes to avoid when using "we should keep that"?

A common mistake is using "we should keep that" without a clear reference for "that". Ensure the context makes it obvious what you're referring to, or specify the item explicitly.