K

[keep off]  {v. phr.}

To refrain from entering; stay away from.

[keep on]  {v.}

1. To go ahead; not stop; continue.

The neighbors asked them to stop making noise, but they kept right on.

Columbus kept on until he saw land.

- Often used before a present participle.

* /Relentlessly, the boy kept on asking  […]

[keep on the good side of]

See: [ON ONE'S GOOD SIDE].

[keep one at a distance] or [keep one at arm's length]  {v. phr.}

To avoid (someone's) company; not become too friendly toward.

Mr. Smith is kind to the workers in his store but after work he keeps them at a distance.

* /Betty likes Bill and is  […]

[keep one's balance]  {v. phr.}

To stay even-tempered; not become overexcited.

Mike has the best personality to run our office; he always keeps his balance.

Contrast: [LOSE ONE'S BALANCE].

[keep one's chin up]  {v. phr.}

To be brave; be determined; face trouble with courage.

He didn't think that he would ever get out of the jungle alive, but he kept his chin up.

Compare: [KEEP A STIFF UPPER LIP].

[keep one's distance]  {v. phr.}

To be cool toward someone; avoid being friendly.

Mary did not like her co-worker, Betty, and kept her distance from her.

Compare: [KEEP ONE AT A DISTANCE].

[keep one's end up]

See: [HOLD ONE'S END UP].

[keep one's eye on]

See: [KEEP AN EYE ON].

[keep one's eye on the ball]  {v. phr.}

1. To watch the ball at all times in a sport, usually in order to hit it or get it; not stop watching the ball.

Keep your eye on the baseball or you won't be able to hit it.

2.  {informal}

To be watchful and  […]