keep tabs on

Idioms  

1. Observe carefully, keep a record of. For example, I hate having my boss keep tabs on my every move, or We've got to keep tabs on outgoing mail so we can keep track of postage. This expression uses to tab in the sense of “an account.” [Late 1800s] Also see keep track.

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Example Sentences

Since levels of risk tolerance vary from investor to investor, it’s important for investors to keep tabs on how concentrated their positions are and what they’re comfortable with.

From MarketWatch • May 13, 2026

The WHO tries to keep tabs on these things, listing things like bird flu, Ebola, Nipah, Lassa and yes, hantavirus, as top-ranking threats to global health.

From Salon • May 11, 2026

Mobile phones can also help authorities in North Korea -- one of the world's most tightly surveilled societies -- keep tabs on people.

From Barron's • May 5, 2026

Just keep tabs on whether he’s in good spirits.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 18, 2026

I can’t tell if everyone is excited about our project or trying to keep tabs on us.

From "Amina's Song" by Hena Khan

Related Words

• attend
• check out
• examine
• follow
• listen
• look
• observe
• regard
• scan
• scrutinize
• see
• stare
• view
• wait