At bay

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adverbial phrase

Kept away or in a controlled situation.

He was able to keep his creditors at bay by making regular payments to them.
Visual representation of "at bay" - Kept away or in a controlled situation.

Often appears as...

  • keep something at bay
  • hold someone at bay

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "at bay"
LampPro Tip 1/2

Distance Control

Use 'at bay' to express maintaining distance between oneself and something undesirable or threatening.

Illustration for Distance Control
She kept her fears at bay with positive thoughts.
LampPro Tip 2/2

Controlled Situation

It implies suppressing something potentially problematic from affecting a situation.

Illustration for Controlled Situation
Regular exercise helps to keep health issues at bay.
Visual representation of the word "At bay"

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