This expression means staying at the same pace as someone or something.

The idea

Keep up with is common and neutral. The object follows with: keep up with the group or keep up with them.

Examples

  • I cannot keep up with the cyclists.
  • Can you keep up with me?
  • We kept up with the group on the hill.
  • The child struggles to keep up with the class.
  • She keeps up with the changing schedule.
  • They slowed down so I could keep up with them.

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Watch out

Do not split the expression or omit with before an object.

Try it yourself

  1. Choose the correct option. Can you keep up ___ the runners? (with / at)

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    with

    with: it introduces the runners whose pace matters.

  2. Choose the correct option. Yesterday I ___ up with my classmates. (kept / keeped)

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    kept

    kept: yesterday requires the past form.

  3. Choose the correct option. The dancers are fast; can you keep up with ___? (them / they)

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    them

    them: the pronoun follows the complete expression.

Use it today

Describe a person or activity whose pace is difficult to match.