Keep You Posted: Definition, Meaning and Origin

Last Updated on
May 8, 2023

The idiom "keep you posted" means to keep someone informed or updated about a particular topic or situation. When you promise to keep someone posted, you are committing to providing them with the latest information or developments.

In short:

"Keep you posted" means to regularly update or inform someone about a specific situation, topic, or event.

What Does "Keep You Posted" Mean?

People use the idiom "keep you posted" when they want to assure someone that they will provide updates or new information about a specific subject or situation. This phrase is common in both formal and informal contexts and is often used to maintain communication and convey a sense of responsibility.

  • Providing updates on an ongoing situation
  • Sharing new information as it becomes available
  • Maintaining communication in both formal and informal settings

The idiom is often used to convey that the speaker will be proactive in sharing updates and keeping the other person informed.

Where Does "Keep You Posted" Come From?

The phrase "keep you posted" has its origins in the 18th century. During that time, the word "post" was used to refer to a courier or messenger responsible for delivering letters and packages. To "keep someone posted" meant to send them regular updates or letters, just as a courier would deliver messages. Over time, the phrase evolved to its modern meaning of keeping someone informed or updated on a specific topic or situation.

Historical Example

"These are our terms, and we will always keep you posted, give you a description of all the new officers who go around."

- Report of the Select Committee on Internal Revenue Frauds to the House of Representatives, 1867

The phrase "keep you posted" has been in use since the 18th century and means to regularly provide someone with updates or new information about a particular situation or subject.

10 Examples of "Keep You Posted" in Sentences

Here are some examples of the idiom "keep you posted" used in various contexts:

  • I will keep you posted on any changes to our travel plans, so stay tuned.
  • Don't worry; the doctor promised to keep me posted on my mother's condition.
  • After you've logged in to your account, we'll keep you posted on any updates or changes via email.
  • I'll keep you posted on the progress of our project throughout the week.
  • Please keep me posted if you hear anything about the job interview.
  • My colleague will keep you posted on the results of the meeting.
  • He said he would keep me posted on any new developments in the case.
  • On a side note, we're working on a new website feature and will keep you posted as we get more details.
  • I'll keep you posted on the status of the shipment and let you know when it arrives.
  • Can you keep me posted on any updates regarding the event?

Examples of "Keep You Posted" in Pop Culture

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

  • In the 2008 film "Iron Man," the idiom is used during a conversation between the protagonist, Tony Stark, and his assistant, Pepper Potts. Tony says, "Please don't turn down my music," to which Pepper replies, "I'll keep you posted."
  • In the 2012 adventure fiction book "The Last Titanic Expedition," David Scott tells his friend Greg, "If you want me to, I can keep you posted on the activity of this expedition."

Other/Different Ways to Say "Keep You Posted"

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

Some of these alternatives include:

  • Keep you informed
  • Keep you updated
  • Keep in touch
  • Let you know
  • Keep you in the loop
  • Update you regularly
  • Inform you of any changes
  • Notify you

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Keep You Posted":

  • What does "keep you posted" mean?

"Keep you posted" means to regularly update or inform someone about a specific situation, topic, or event.

  • Where does the phrase come from?

The phrase "keep you posted" has its origins in the 18th century when "post" referred to a courier or messenger responsible for delivering letters and packages. The phrase was originally meant to send someone regular updates or letters, just as a courier would deliver messages.

  • How can I use "keep you posted" in a sentence?

You can use "keep you posted" in a sentence to express that you will provide updates or new information about a specific subject or situation, such as, "I'll keep you posted on the progress of the project, and until next time, have a great day!"

  • Is "keep you posted" a formal or informal phrase?

'Keep you posted' can be used in both formal and informal settings, as it simply conveys the intention to maintain communication and share updates.

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

There are no significant regional differences in the use of 'keep you posted.' It is a commonly understood phrase in English-speaking countries around the world.

  • Can "keep you posted" be used in a negative context?

"Keep you posted" can be used in a negative context if the updates or information being shared are unfavorable or undesirable. For example, "I'll keep you posted on the storm's path and any potential damage."

  • What are some synonyms for "keep you posted"?

Some synonyms for "keep you posted" include keep you informed, keep you updated, stay in touch, let you know, keep you in the loop, update you regularly, inform you of any changes, and notify you.

  • Can "keep you posted" imply annoyance?

Yes, "keep you posted" can sometimes be used in an annoyed or impatient tone, especially if the recipient has been persistent in asking for updates. For example: "You've called three times today already for an update—don't worry, I said I would keep you posted and I will!"

  • What is the best way to use "keep you posted" in a professional context?

In a professional context, you can use "keep you posted" when communicating with colleagues or clients about ongoing projects, developments, or changes. For example, "I will keep you posted on any updates regarding our meeting schedule."

  • Can "keep you posted" be used in written communication, like emails and text messages?

Yes, "keep you posted" can be used in written communication, such as emails and text messages. It is an appropriate way to let someone know that you will provide updates and share new information as it becomes available.

Final Thoughts About "Keep You Posted"

To put it simply, "keep you posted" is an idiom that means to regularly update or inform someone about a specific situation, topic, or event. The expression is used in both formal and informal contexts to convey a sense of responsibility and commitment to providing the latest information as it becomes available. With its origins in the 18th century, the phrase has a rich history and continues to be relevant today.

Key takeaways about the idiom 'keep you posted' include:

  • Indicates a commitment to providing updates or new information
  • It has its origins in the 18th century, when "post" referred to a courier or messenger responsible for delivering letters and packages.
  • It can be used in both formal and informal settings
  • It has several alternative expressions, such as 'keep you informed,' 'keep you updated,' 'stay in touch,' 'let you know,' 'keep you in the loop,' 'update you regularly,' 'inform you of any changes,' and 'notify you.'

By understanding and using 'keep you posted' in your daily conversations, you can effectively convey your commitment to maintaining open communication and sharing the latest information with others, adding a touch of history and versatility to your language.

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