keep out

phraseB12 meaningsNot compared — the two pools are counted one word at a time, so a phrase has no score

To keep out is to stop somebody or something entering. A fence, a door, or a sign saying exactly that.

It splits round an object, and it works as a blunt instruction, since keep out on a gate is not a request. It also covers weather and cold, since curtains keep out draughts. There is a reflexive use about involvement, and keeping out of an argument means declining to take part, which is often the wisest available option.

Definitions of keep out

1phrasekeep outTo prevent something or somebody from entering.B1
“The hedge will keep out most of the wind.”
2phraseavoidTo avoid becoming involved in something.B2
“He was wise enough to keep out of the whole business.”

Practised in A Man Called Ove, A Song of Ice and Fire

First appears in chapter 10 of A Man Called Ove.

Practise this word

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keep out

phraseB12 meaningsNot compared — the two pools are counted one word at a time, so a phrase has no score

To keep out is to stop somebody or something entering. A fence, a door, or a sign saying exactly that.

Definitions of keep out

1phrasekeep outTo prevent something or somebody from entering.B1
“The hedge will keep out most of the wind.”
2phraseavoidTo avoid becoming involved in something.B2
“He was wise enough to keep out of the whole business.”

Practised in A Man Called Ove, A Song of Ice and Fire

First appears in chapter 10 of A Man Called Ove.

Practise this word