Meaning trap
keep up
maintain the same pace
To move or progress at the same speed as someone or something else, so you are not left behind.
Don't mix these meanings
Same phrase, different job.
To move or progress at the same speed as someone or something else, so you are not left behind.
Another meaning of 'keep up' is 'stay informed'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
It's hard to keep up with my brother when he's running.
In my job, I have to keep up with all the new technology, which can be quite challenging.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: I can't keep up the class.
Say: I can't keep up with the class.
'Keep up WITH someone/something' — don't drop 'with'.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
'Keep up (with)' is the natural verb for not falling behind. 'Maintain the same pace as' is wordy.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
keep up with
- with the group
- with the pace
- with you
- with demand
Don't confuse it
Related
Other meanings and phrases to compare.
- keep up (stay informed) — Another meaning of 'keep up' is 'stay informed'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.