Understanding the Phrasal Verb "Keep at": Meanings and Usage
Learning English phrasal verbs can sometimes feel like a puzzle, but mastering them is a significant step towards fluency. Today, we're diving deep into the versatile phrasal verb "keep at". Understanding how to use "keep at" correctly will greatly improve your ability to express perseverance, continuous effort, and even a bit of nagging! This article will explore the different meanings of "keep at", its grammatical structures with clear examples, related synonyms to expand your vocabulary, and some practice questions to help you learn phrasal verbs effectively. Let's get started!
Table of Contents
What Does Keep at Mean?
The phrasal verb "keep at" primarily revolves around the idea of persistence and continuation. It signifies the act of continuing to do something or work on something, especially if it's difficult or requires sustained effort. Think of it as not giving up and maintaining your focus on a task or goal. Understanding "keep at" helps you articulate determination in various contexts.
Structure with Keep at
Understanding the different meanings and how to structure sentences with "keep at" is key to using it correctly. This phrasal verb can be quite flexible. Let's explore its main uses.
Meaning 1: Persevering Through Challenges
This is the most common meaning of "keep at". It implies continuing to work on something, especially when it is difficult, tedious, or when you face obstacles. It highlights a sense of determination and resilience. Using "keep at" here shows you're not easily discouraged.
Structure 1a: Subject + keep at + [Task/Activity (Noun or Gerund)] This structure is used when you specify the task or activity that someone is persisting with.
- Example 1: "Learning a new programming language was tough for Maria, but she decided to keep at her coding exercises every evening."
- Example 2: "Despite several failed attempts, the scientist decided to keep at the experiment, believing in a breakthrough."
Structure 1b: Subject + keep at + it Here, "it" refers to a previously mentioned task or a generally understood effort. This is a common and concise way to express perseverance.
- Example 1: "The marathon was grueling, but the runners knew they had to keep at it to reach the finish line."
- Example 2: "This project is demanding a lot of overtime, but if we all keep at it, we can complete it successfully."
Usage Note: This meaning of "keep at" is often used to encourage someone or to describe someone's admirable tenacity. It's a positive expression emphasizing endurance and the will to continue working hard.
Meaning 2: Persistently Urging or Nagging
Another important meaning of "keep at" is to repeatedly tell, ask, or urge someone to do something, sometimes to the point of being annoying (nagging). This usage often implies a continuous, persistent effort to influence someone's actions.
Structure 2a: Subject + keep at + someone + to do something This structure specifies the person being urged and the action they are being urged to perform.
- Example 1: "My mother kept at me to clean my room all weekend until I finally did it."
- Example 2: "The coach kept at the players to improve their passing accuracy during practice sessions."
Structure 2b: Subject + keep at + someone + about something This structure is used when you refer to the topic or issue the person is being persistently reminded or urged about.
- Example 1: "The children kept at their parents about getting a new puppy for weeks."
- Example 2: "His boss kept at him about the overdue report, reminding him daily."
Usage Note: While this meaning can imply annoyance (nagging), it can also simply mean persistent reminding or encouragement, depending on the context and tone. The key is the repetitive nature of the urging.
Meaning 3: Maintaining Consistent Effort or Practice
This meaning is a nuance of the first, emphasizing the regular, steady, and consistent application of effort towards a skill, habit, or long-term goal. It’s not just about overcoming a single difficult task, but about the ongoing discipline of practice or work.
Structure 3a: Subject + keep at + [Regular Activity/Practice (Noun or Gerund)] This structure highlights the consistent engagement in a particular activity or form of practice.
- Example 1: "To become a fluent speaker of English, you must keep at your daily vocabulary and conversation practice."
- Example 2: "She kept at her piano scales for an hour every day, aiming for perfection."
Structure 3b: Subject + keep at + it (referring to consistent practice) Similar to the first meaning, "it" can refer to the ongoing effort or practice regimen.
- Example 1: "Meditation can be challenging at first, but if you keep at it, you'll notice its benefits."
- Example 2: "He found early morning runs difficult, but he kept at it because he wanted to improve his health."
Usage Note: This usage of "keep at" is excellent for talking about skill development, habit formation, or any endeavor that requires long-term dedication and regular input of effort. It underscores the importance of consistency for achieving phrasal verb meanings mastery and other goals.
Related Phrases and Synonyms
Expanding your vocabulary with synonyms for "keep at" can make your English sound more varied and precise. While "keep at" is a fantastic phrasal verb, knowing alternatives helps in different contexts. Here are some synonyms, primarily related to the 'persevere' meaning:
| Synonym | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Persist (in/with) | To continue firmly in a course of action, especially despite difficulty, opposition, or failure. | "She persisted in her efforts to find a solution." |
| Persevere | To continue in a course of action even in the face of difficulty or with little prospect of success. | "If you persevere, you will eventually achieve your goals." |
| Continue | To go on with an action or activity without stopping. | "Please continue with your work after the break." |
| Stick with (it/something) | To continue doing something, especially something difficult, and not give up. | "Learning to play an instrument is hard, but stick with it." |
| Press on/ahead | To continue doing something in a determined way, despite difficulties or interruptions. | "Despite the storm, the explorers decided to press on." |
Understanding these synonyms will allow you to express the idea of continuing or persevering with more nuance.
Practice Time!
Now it's time to test your understanding of the phrasal verb "keep at"! Choose the best option for each question.
Question 1: Which sentence uses "keep at" to mean 'persevere with a difficult task'? a) She kept her books at the library.
b) He told his son to keep at his homework even though it was challenging.
c) The manager kept at his employee about punctuality.
d) They decided to keep their plans at a preliminary stage.
Correct answer: b
**Question 2: "My little brother _________ me to play video games with him all afternoon." Which is the best way to complete the sentence using "keep at"?
a) kept at
b) kept to
c) kept on
d) kept from
Correct answer: a
**Question 3: "If you want to learn to play the guitar well, you need to _________ practicing every day." Choose the correct form.
a) keep it at
b) keep at it
c) keep on it
d) keep from it
Correct answer: b
**Question 4: What is a close synonym for "keep at it" when talking about a challenging project?
a) Give up
b) Postpone it
c) Persevere
d) Delegate it
Correct answer: c
How did you do? Practicing with phrasal verb examples like these is a great way to solidify your learning!
Conclusion
Mastering phrasal verbs like "keep at" is a rewarding part of learning English. As we've seen, "keep at" is a versatile phrasal verb primarily used to express perseverance, continuous effort on a task, or persistently urging someone. Understanding its different meanings, structures, and common uses will undoubtedly enhance your conversational and written English. Remember, the key to truly learning any new vocabulary, including phrasal verbs, is to keep at your practice consistently. Keep learning and keep improving!