Keep somebody on their toes

usgb
phrase

To make someone stay alert, focused or ready for any situation.

The rapid changes in the technology industry keep us on our toes.
Visual representation of "keep somebody on their toes" - To make someone stay alert, focused or ready for any situation.

Often appears as...

  • always keep me on my toes
  • keep you on your toes

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "keep somebody on their toes"
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Situational Alertness

Used when someone needs to react quickly to changing situations.

Illustration for Situational Alertness
An emergency room nurse must always be kept on their toes.
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Active Engagement

Suggests someone is being encouraged to stay actively involved or interested.

Illustration for Active Engagement
This challenging puzzle will keep you on your toes.
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Positive Pressure

Implies a sort of beneficial stress that promotes personal growth or improvement.

Illustration for Positive Pressure
I like working on tricky projects; they keep me on my toes.
Visual representation of the word "Keep somebody on their toes"

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