for keeps
Definition
Adverb 1. Permanently, with lasting effect: Used to indicate that a situation, arrangement, or outcome is final and not temporary or subject to change. 2. In earnest, seriously: Used to indicate that an activity or competition is being undertaken with full seriousness and with permanent consequences, not just for practice or fun.
Usage
The phrase "for keeps" modifies verbs to describe actions or states that are intended to be permanent or are conducted with serious, lasting intent. It is often used in informal contexts.
Examples
- They decided to live together for keeps. (Meaning: permanently, not just temporarily.)
- This isn't a practice game; we're playing for keeps now. (Meaning: seriously, with the outcome having real consequences.)
- When she gave him the family ring, it was for keeps. (Meaning: to keep permanently.)
Advanced Usage
- "Marry for keeps": To enter into marriage with the intention of it being permanent.
- They believe in marrying for keeps, through good times and bad.
- "In it for keeps": To be committed to something permanently or for the long term.
- When I joined this project, I was in it for keeps.
Variants and Related Words
- Permanently (adv.): In a way that lasts or remains unchanged indefinitely.
- For good (idiom): Permanently, finally. (e.g., )
Synonyms
- Permanently
- For good
- Forever
- Irrevocably
Related Idioms
- Play for keeps: To engage in an activity, especially a competition or conflict, with a serious intent to win and secure a permanent advantage.
- In this business negotiation, you have to play for keeps.
Adverb
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for the winner to keep all
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they played for keeps
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