Keep in Touch: Definition, Meaning and Origin

Last Updated on
May 8, 2023

The idiom "keep in touch" means to maintain communication with someone, typically through messages, phone calls, or social media. By keeping in touch, you preserve the connection you have with someone over time.

In short:

"Keep in touch" means to stay in contact with someone, often through various means of communication.

What Does "Keep in Touch" Mean?

People use the idiom "keep in touch" when they want to maintain a connection with someone, despite the distance or changes in their lives. This phrase is common in both formal and informal contexts and implies that both parties will make an effort to communicate regularly.

  • Continuing communication with someone
  • Maintaining a connection despite distance or change
  • Using different methods of communication to stay in contact

Where Does "Keep in Touch" Come From?

The phrase "keep in touch" has been in use since the 18th century and is often used to express the desire to stay connected with friends, family members, or colleagues. The term "keep" means to preserve, maintain, or continue, so when combined, the phrase "keep in touch" suggests maintaining or continuing contact with someone. Some sources suggest it was used in military marches, where the soldiers had to be able to touch the person next to them.

Historical Example

"I believe there is some agreement between Mr. Marshall and him to keep in touch with one another."

- Hearings Before the Committee on the Judiciary, House of Representatives, 1916

10 Examples of "Keep in Touch" in Sentences

Here are some examples of the phrase used in various contexts:

  • We promised to keep in touch after graduation.
  • Long time no talk! We should make an effort to keep in touch more regularly.
  • My former coworkers and I still keep in touch even though we've changed jobs.
  • Let's keep in touch through email and social media.
  • Please keep in touch with us throughout your trip, and rest assured that we will be here to help if there are issues.
  • She always keeps in touch with her friends from college.
  • Keep in touch, and let me know how you're doing in your new city.
  • It's a wrap on this project, but let's keep in touch about collaborating again soon.
  • We use video calls to keep in touch with our family members abroad.
  • For the love of Pete, please keep in touch so we can stay up to date with each other's lives.

Examples of "Keep in Touch" in Pop Culture

The expression has appeared in various forms of media and pop culture:

  • "Keep in Touch" is a 2015 indie movie directed by Sam Kretchmar.
  • "Keep in Touch" is the first single of Hollywoord Records artist JD McCary.
  • The companion book to the film based on Ann Brashares' popular novel "The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants" is titled "Keep in Touch: Letters, Notes, and More from the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants."

Other Ways to Say "Keep in Touch"

There are several other ways to express the meaning of "keep in touch" in English.

Some of these alternatives include:

  • Stay in contact
  • Maintain communication
  • Stay connected
  • Keep up with each other
  • Stay updated
  • Remain in touch
  • Don't be a stranger
  • Stay close

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Keep in Touch":

  • What does "keep in touch" mean today?

"Keep in touch" means to maintain communication with someone, often through various means of communication such as messages, phone calls, or social media.

  • What is the origin of the phrase "keep in touch"?

The phrase "keep in touch" originated in the 18th century when "touch" referred to being in contact with someone, either physically or mentally. The term "keep" implies preserving, maintaining, or continuing that contact.

  • How can I use "keep in touch" in a sentence?

You can use "keep in touch" in a sentence to express the desire to maintain communication with someone, such as, "He promised to keep in touch, but it was just a lame joke."

  • What are some synonyms for "keep in touch"?

Some synonyms for "keep in touch" include stay in contact, maintain communication, stay connected, keep up with each other, stay updated, remain in touch, don't be a stranger, and stay close.

  • Can "keep in touch" be used in both formal and informal settings?

Yes, "keep in touch" can be used in both formal and informal settings, as the phrase is appropriate for various types of relationships and situations.

  • Does the idiom have any connection to technology?

While the origin of "keep in touch" predates modern technology, the phrase is often used in the context of staying connected through various means of communication, including technology such as email, social media, and video calls.

  • Are there any regional differences in the use of "keep in touch"?

"Keep in touch" is a commonly used phrase across various English-speaking regions without significant regional differences in meaning or usage.

  • Can "keep in touch" be used in a negative context?

"Keep in touch" is generally used in a positive context to express the desire to maintain a connection with someone. However, it could be used sarcastically or insincerely in a negative context, depending on the speaker's tone and intention.

  • How do I know when to use "keep in touch"?

Use "keep in touch" when you want to express your intention to maintain communication with someone, regardless of the distance or changes in your lives. The phrase is suitable for various types of relationships and situations.

  • Can "keep in touch" be used with different verb tenses?

Yes, "keep in touch" can be used with different verb tenses, such as past (kept in touch), present (keeps in touch), and future (will keep in touch).

  • What are some common expressions related to "keep in touch"?

Some common expressions related to "keep in touch" include 'touch base,' which means to briefly make contact with someone to discuss a matter, and 'lose touch,' which means to stop communicating with someone over time.

Final Thoughts About "Keep in Touch"

Let's have a quick recap: the idiom "keep in touch" refers to the act of maintaining communication with someone, often through different means such as messages, phone calls, or social media. This expression is used in both formal and informal settings to convey the intention to preserve a connection with someone despite distance or changes in life circumstances.

Key takeaways about the idiom "keep in touch":

  • This means staying in contact with someone through various means of communication.
  • Originated in the 18th century, suggesting the continuation or preservation of contact.
  • It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
  • It has several alternative expressions, such as "stay in contact," "maintain communication," "stay connected," and "keep up with each other."

By understanding and incorporating the idiom in your daily conversations, you can effectively convey your desire to maintain a connection with friends, family, or colleagues and strengthen the bond with those you care about.

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