Keep at

verb

To continue doing something, especially in a determined way.

Peter kept at his studies all through the night.
Visual representation of "keep at" - To continue doing something, especially in a determined way.

Often appears as...

  • keep at it
  • keep at work
verb

To persistently bother or nag someone.

Her little brother kept at her to let him use her bike.
Visual representation of "keep at" - To persistently bother or nag someone.

Often appears as...

  • keep at someone
  • keep at him

Usage tips

Disapproving

Colloquial

verb

To continue doing something, especially in a determined way.

Peter kept at his studies all through the night.
Visual representation of "keep at" - To continue doing something, especially in a determined way.

Often appears as...

  • keep at it
  • keep at work
verb

To persistently bother or nag someone.

Her little brother kept at her to let him use her bike.
Visual representation of "keep at" - To persistently bother or nag someone.

Often appears as...

  • keep at someone
  • keep at him

Usage tips

Disapproving

Colloquial

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

Steady Persistence

Used to express continuous effort despite difficulties.

Illustration for Steady Persistence
Even when the math problems were tough, she kept at it.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Encouragement Phrase

Often used to motivate someone to maintain their focus or effort.

Illustration for Encouragement Phrase
You're almost there, just keep at it!
LampPro Tip 3/3

Determination

Highlights a person's determination when facing challenges.

Illustration for Determination
He kept at his invention, despite the failed tests.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Steady Persistence

Used to express continuous effort despite difficulties.

Illustration for Steady Persistence
Even when the math problems were tough, she kept at it.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Encouragement Phrase

Often used to motivate someone to maintain their focus or effort.

Illustration for Encouragement Phrase
You're almost there, just keep at it!
LampPro Tip 3/3

Determination

Highlights a person's determination when facing challenges.

Illustration for Determination
He kept at his invention, despite the failed tests.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Steady Persistence

Used to express continuous effort despite difficulties.

Illustration for Steady Persistence
Even when the math problems were tough, she kept at it.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Encouragement Phrase

Often used to motivate someone to maintain their focus or effort.

Illustration for Encouragement Phrase
You're almost there, just keep at it!
LampPro Tip 3/3

Determination

Highlights a person's determination when facing challenges.

Illustration for Determination
He kept at his invention, despite the failed tests.
Visual representation of the word "Keep at"

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