Translation guide
The English verb "keep" has many meanings. This guide organizes them by practical use, from most common to niche, with natural Japanese equivalents.
To continue having something, not give it away, or not lose it.
The most common way to say you have and keep something. Literally 'holding/having'.
You can keep this book.
Please keep the change.
To keep something for later use, set aside, save. Implies intentional retention.
Formal, for keeping items in storage or safekeeping.
Please keep valuables in the safe.
To cause something or someone to remain in a certain state.
Pattern meaning 'keep something in a state'. The second 〜 is an adjective or noun.
To not stop doing an action.
To place something in a particular location for storage or safekeeping.
To put away, store. Very common for tidying up.
To hold someone in a place, not allow to leave.
To fulfill or adhere to something like a promise or schedule.
To keep (a promise, rule, appointment). Very common.
To regularly write or maintain a record.
Used for keeping a diary, journal, or log.
To stay with someone so they are not alone.
English 'keep' often combines with adjectives or participles (keep warm, keep going). Japanese uses specific patterns like 〜にしておく or 〜続ける. Direct translation with 保つ (tamotsu) is limited to certain abstract nouns.
しまう means to put away in a designated spot (tidy up). 取っておく means to set aside for future use (save).
Put away toys in the box.
この手紙は取っておきます。
I'll keep this letter.
Please keep the room clean.
Keep the drinks cold.
Leave something as it is, keep it in that state. Often for not changing something.
Don't keep the door open.
To maintain or preserve a state, often used for abstract things like balance, health, or temperature.
Keep the room temperature constant.
Exercise is important to keep healthy.
He kept talking.
Implies 'keep doing nothing but...', often with a negative nuance.
He keeps complaining.
Colloquial, emphatic 'keep doing intensely'. Attach to verb stem.
I kept playing games all day yesterday.
使ったら元の場所にしまってください。
Please keep it in its original place after use.
I kept the winter clothes in the closet.
Formal storage, safekeeping.
The data is kept in a secure location.
To detain someone by persuasion or physically, often used when someone tries to leave.
She kept me talking for a long time.
To lock up, confine, keep someone inside.
Don't keep the dog in a cage.
Keep a promise.
Please keep to the time (be punctual).
I keep a diary every day.
To keep a record, more formal.
Keep a record of the experiment results.
To accompany, keep company. Often used in social contexts.
Can you keep me company for a bit?
この切符は取っておいて。
Keep this ticket (for later).