for keeps

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For the winner to retain, as in You can't take the marbles back; we were playing for keeps. [Mid-1800s]

For an indefinitely long time, forever, as in She is leaving town for keeps.

In earnest, seriously, as in We're separating for keeps. [Late 1800s]

QUIZZES

Did you ever collect all those state quarters? Put them to good use on this quiz about curious state monikers and the facts around them.

Question 1 of 8

Mississippi’s nickname comes from the magnificent trees that grow there. What is it?

Sands was involved in a scandalous-for-the-time romance with the carpenter and there were rumors she was pregnant with his child.
New York’s Most Tragic Ghost Loves Minimalist Swedish Fashion|Nina Strochlic|January 8, 2015|DAILY BEAST
Like his old man, he keeps it reined in, but when talking about fishing, a true regret seeps out.
The Story Behind Lee Marvin’s Liberty Valance Smile|Robert Ward|January 3, 2015|DAILY BEAST
I notice he moves at a slightly slower pace than everyone else, and keeps his gestures compact.
His First Day Out Of Jail After 40 Years: Adjusting To Life Outside|Justin Rohrlich|January 3, 2015|DAILY BEAST
The possibility that the same outcome could happen another way -- namely a guy asks me out -- keeps me from taking action.
Random Hook-Ups or Dry Spells: Why Millennials Flunk College Dating|Ellie Schaack|January 1, 2015|DAILY BEAST

There was no mistaking this for the gaudiness and gilt of made-for-TV awards shows.
Streetwear pioneer, visionary entrepreneur, and community mentor Daymond John is honored with Hennessy Privilege Award|Hennessy|January 1, 2015|DAILY BEAST
But ef Jos keeps on, airnin' ez much ez he hez so fur, he's goin' ter pay the Injun part on 't, when he cums.
Ramona|Helen Hunt Jackson
A groom is a chap, that a gentleman keeps to clean his 'osses, and be blown up, when things go wrong.
The Book of Anecdotes and Budget of Fun;|Various
A coquette is said to be an imperfect incarnation of Cupid, as she keeps her beau, and not her arrows, in a quiver.
The Book of Anecdotes and Budget of Fun;|Various
Twenty dollars a month is the salary, and school keeps for six months, so I shall earn the large sum of $120 a year.
The Soldier of the Valley|Nelson Lloyd
Augustus Theodore swings on a chair before the fire, which he keeps at work for his own especial consolation.
Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine, No. CCCXXXIX. January, 1844. Vol. LV.|Various