keep your spirits up

/kiːp jɔːr ˈspɪrɪts ʌp/
phrase★Intermediate
◆ What It Really Means
To maintain a positive attitude or morale, especially during difficult times
Literal Meaning
To physically lift or maintain the position of one's spirits (as if they were tangible objects)
Literal Breakdown
keepto hold or maintain+your spiritsyour inner essence or soul+upin a higher position
◇ Mental Image
The metaphor of 'spirits' as something that can be physically lifted or maintained, suggesting that one's mood or morale can be influenced and sustained through encouragement.
◈ When to Use
A friend is feeling stressed about an upcoming exam. You say, 'Don't worry, keep your spirits up, you've got this!' to encourage them.
◉ Cultural Note
This phrase reflects the cultural value of resilience and the belief that one's attitude can significantly impact their ability to overcome challenges.
informal

To maintain a positive attitude or morale, especially during difficult times

Even though the project was delayed, the team leader told everyone to keep their spirits up.

Even though the project was delayed, the team leader told everyone to stay positive.

She sent a cheerful message to keep her friend's spirits up during the exam period.

She sent a cheerful message to help her friend stay positive during the exam period.

💡

This phrase is often used to encourage someone who is feeling down or facing challenges.

Collocations

keep your spirits upmaintain a positive attitude

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

keep your chin upidiom
To remain optimistic and resilient in difficult situations
stay positivephrase
To maintain a hopeful and optimistic attitude

💡Pro Tip

Encouragement

Use this phrase to uplift someone who is feeling down or facing challenges.

⚡Gold Rule

Contextual Appropriateness

Use this phrase in informal settings to encourage someone, not in formal or professional contexts.

📖Word Origin

The phrase originates from the idea that 'spirits' (one's mood or morale) can be lifted or maintained through encouragement and positive thinking.

📝Usage Notes

This phrase is commonly used in informal contexts to encourage someone who is feeling discouraged or facing difficulties. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive outlook.

Word Breakdown

keep
to maintain or preserve
verb
+
your spirits
your mood or morale
noun phrase
+
up
in a positive or elevated state
adverb
English Dictionary