Dictionary-enhanced synonyms
Synonyms for “Keep” — 4 Other Ways to Say It
To have something and not lose it or give it to someone else; to hold onto something.
Meaning of Keep
To retain possession of something and not give it away; to continue having or holding something.
How to Pronounce Keep
IPA: /kiːp/ Stress: O
One syllable with long /iː/ vowel sound like 'ee' in 'see', ending with /p/ sound.
4 Synonyms for Keep — Words Similar to Keep
Browse alternative words with their meaning, level, and a real example sentence so you pick the synonym that fits your context.
retain
/rɪˈteɪn/To keep something you own or possess.
Example: The company retained its best employees with higher salaries.
hold
/həʊld/To keep something in your hands or arms, like holding a baby or holding a pencil.
Example: Please hold my hand while we cross the street.
maintain
/meɪnˈteɪn/To keep something working well or to continue doing something regularly.
Example: You must maintain your car regularly to keep it safe.
preserve
/prɪˈzɜrv/To keep something safe and in good condition for the future.
Example: We must preserve the forest for future generations.
Smart Synonyms for Keep — When to Use Each
retain
for formal contexts describing possession
hold
for physical grasping or temporary possession
preserve
for maintaining in original state over time
Antonyms of Keep — Opposite Words
How to Use Keep and Its Synonyms in Sentences
- She keeps her grandmother's ring in a safe place. A1
- I keep my keys on the hook by the door. A1
- The family kept their important documents in a secure location. B1
Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Keep
What is another word for "keep"?
Common synonyms for "keep" include: retain, hold, maintain, preserve.
What can I say instead of "keep"?
Try one of these alternatives: retain, hold, maintain, preserve. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.
Is "keep" formal or informal?
"keep" is generally used in neutral contexts.
When should I use "keep" instead of "retain"?
Use "keep" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "retain" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.
What are the antonyms of "keep"?
Words with the opposite meaning of "keep" include: lose, give away, release.