Keep sth on sb Meaning, Examples & How to Use the Phrasal Verb

What Does “Keep sth on sb” Mean?

“Keep sth on sb” means to continue to have or maintain something on a person, usually clothing or an object. It often implies not removing or taking something off someone.

Introduction

The phrase “Keep sth on sb” is a common English expression used to describe the act of maintaining or not removing something from a person. This “something” (abbreviated as “sth”) often refers to clothing, accessories, or even emotions. Understanding the “Keep sth on sb meaning” is important for everyday conversations, especially when talking about wearing clothes or holding feelings. Whether you want to tell someone to keep their jacket on or refer to someone holding a grudge, this phrasal verb is very useful. This article will help you learn how to use “Keep sth on sb” correctly with examples and tips.

Quick Info Box

• Phrasal verb: Keep something on somebody
• Type: Transitive
• Level: A2–B2
• Short meaning: To not remove something from someone or to continue having something on a person

Structure (Grammar Rules)

“Keep sth on sb” is a separable phrasal verb. You can place the object (something) between “keep” and “on” or after “on sb.”

• Keep + something + on + somebody (e.g., Keep your hat on.)
• Keep + on + somebody + something (less common, usually the first form is preferred)

Example: “Keep your shoes on” is correct, while “Keep on your shoes” is less natural.

How to Use “Keep sth on sb”?

You use “Keep sth on sb” when you want to tell someone to continue wearing or holding something. It is often used with clothes, accessories, or even expressions like smiles or emotions. The phrase can also be used figuratively, such as “keep pressure on someone” or “keep a secret on someone,” but the most common use is related to clothing.

Examples

Here are some natural sentences using “Keep sth on sb in a sentence”:

• It’s chilly outside, so you should keep your coat on.
• Even though it was hot, she kept her hat on to protect herself from the sun.
• He asked me to keep the secret on him until he was ready to tell everyone.
• The teacher told the students to keep their masks on during the class.
• She kept a smile on her face even when things went wrong.

Common Mistakes

Many learners confuse the order or the use of “keep sth on sb.” Here are some common errors and the correct forms:

• Incorrect: Keep on your shoes.
• Correct: Keep your shoes on.
• Incorrect: Keep the jacket off you.
• Correct: Keep the jacket on you.

Remember, the object (something) usually comes between “keep” and “on.”

Differences / Synonyms

Similar phrasal verbs include “leave sth on sb,” “hold sth on sb,” and “keep sth with sb.” “Keep sth on sb” focuses on continuing to wear or maintain something on a person, while “leave sth on sb” may imply not removing something temporarily.

• Keep sth on sb: Continue wearing or having something on a person.
• Leave sth on sb: Not remove something for a short time.
• Hold sth on sb: Less common; may imply physically holding something on someone.

Use “keep sth on sb” when you want to emphasize ongoing action.

Common Collocations

We often use “keep sth on sb” with these objects:

• Coat: Keep your coat on to stay warm.
• Hat: Keep your hat on to protect from the sun.
• Glasses: Keep your glasses on if you need them to see.
• Mask: Keep your mask on in crowded places.
• Smile: Keep a smile on your face during difficult times.

Related Phrasal Verbs

Here are related phrasal verbs of keep sth on sb:

• Keep Sth Off Sth
• Keep At Sth
• Keep Sb Off Sth
• Keep Sb Back
• Keep Off Sth

Real-life Dialogue

Here is a short conversation using “keep sth on sb”:

Anna: It’s cold in here, should I take my jacket off?

John: No, keep it on. The heater is not working.

Anna: Okay, I’ll keep my jacket on then.

Practice

Choose the correct sentence:

• A) Keep your shoes on inside the house.
• B) Keep on your shoes inside the house.
• C) Keep your shoes off inside the house.

Answer: A) Keep your shoes on inside the house.

FAQs

• Q: Can “keep sth on sb” be used with emotions?
  A: Yes, it can be used figuratively, like “keep a smile on your face.”
• Q: Is “keep sth on sb” formal or informal?
  A: It is neutral and suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
• Q: Can I say “keep on your hat”?
  A: No, the correct form is “keep your hat on.”
• Q: Does “keep sth on sb” only refer to clothing?
  A: Mostly yes, but it can also refer to other things like emotions or secrets.
• Q: Is “keep sth on sb” separable?
  A: Yes, you can separate the object as in “keep your coat on.”