Keep from

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phrasal verb

To avoid doing something intentionally, or to suppress a feeling.

I was quite surprised when they made the announcement but I managed to keep from laughing.
Visual representation of "keep from" - To avoid doing something intentionally, or to suppress a feeling

Often appears as...

  • keep from laughing
  • keep from crying
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "keep from"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Restraint

Use 'keep from' to express control over emotions or reactions in difficult or surprising situations.

Illustration for Emotional Restraint
Despite the setback, he kept from getting angry.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Intentional Effort

Emphasizes the deliberate effort to avoid a certain action or reaction.

Illustration for Intentional Effort
She kept from interrupting the speaker, even though she disagreed.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Subtlety

Can imply subtle feelings of difficulty or reluctance in the action being avoided.

Illustration for Subtlety
He couldn’t keep from smiling, despite the formality of the occasion.
Visual representation of the word "Keep from"

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