keep
verb (used with object)
to hold or retain in one's possession; hold as one's own.
are keeping
-
present progressiveof keep.present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
As a result, companies are keeping a tight rein on hiring as part of an effort to keep their own costs down.
From MarketWatch ● Nov. 4, 2026
"Nevertheless, given their claims, we are keeping a close watch on the situation," he added.
From Barron's ● Oct. 22, 2026
"We are keeping tackling poverty and the cost of living firmly on the agenda."
From BBC ● Oct. 20, 2026
High shipping and insurance costs are keeping Brent crude—the global oil-price benchmark—above US$100 per barrel.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 14, 2026
“Somewhere inside, the First and Second Cohorts are keeping their banners. Our job is to get inside and capture them without getting slaughtered. We do that, we win.”
From "The Son of Neptune" by Rick Riordan
