How Do You Spell FOR KEEPS?

Pronunciation: [fɔː kˈiːps] (IPA)

The phrase "for keeps" means that something is being done permanently or without the intention of returning it. The spelling of this phrase derives from its pronunciation in American English, which is /fɔr kips/. The "for" is spelled with an "o" but pronounced as "aw" due to the "r" sound. The "keeps" is spelled with a "k" but pronounced as "ps" due to the silent "k" and the "s" sound combined. Understanding the phonetic transcription can help speakers correctly spell and pronounce this common phrase.

FOR KEEPS Meaning and Definition

1. "For keeps" is an idiomatic expression that can be used as an adverbial phrase to indicate the permanence or lifelong nature of something, or to convey that an action or decision is being made with finality and without intention or possibility of reversing or changing it. This phrase is often applied in informal contexts, such as everyday conversation or relaxed settings, and may have different meanings depending on the context.

   In one sense, "for keeps" can refer to the lifelong possession or ownership of something. For example, if someone says they are giving you a gift "for keeps," it means that the item is permanently yours to keep and cannot be taken back. Similarly, if you enter into a serious romantic relationship "for keeps," it implies a commitment to stay together for the long term.

   Another meaning of "for keeps" is when a decision or action is taken with a final and permanent effect. For instance, if you quit your job "for keeps," it implies that you have made a definitive decision to leave and will not be returning. Similarly, if you forgive someone "for keeps," it signifies that you have chosen to completely let go of any resentment or grudges, without any intention of bringing up the issue again.

   Overall, "for keeps" conveys the idea of something being permanent or irreversible, emphasizing the finality and long-lasting nature of its effects.

Common Misspellings for FOR KEEPS

• dor keeps
• cor keeps
• vor keeps
• gor keeps
• tor keeps
• ror keeps
• fir keeps
• fkr keeps
• flr keeps
• fpr keeps
• f0r keeps
• f9r keeps
• foe keeps
• fod keeps
• fof keeps
• fot keeps
• fo5 keeps
• fo4 keeps
• for jeeps

Etymology of FOR KEEPS

The phrase for keeps originated from American English and is believed to have emerged in the mid-19th century. Its etymology is uncertain, but it likely derives from the game of marbles, popular among children during that time. When children played marbles, they would sometimes bet their marbles, and the phrase for keeps was used to emphasize that the winnings would be permanently kept by the winner. Over time, the expression extended beyond just marbles and began to be used more broadly to mean permanently or without return or exchange.

Idioms with the word FOR KEEPS

• for keeps The idiom "for keeps" means for good; permanently; not temporary. It implies that something is meant to be kept or owned forever.
• play for keeps To play for keeps means to engage in a serious or determined manner, often with the intention of winning or achieving a certain goal, without holding back or taking unnecessary risks. It can also refer to playing a game or participating in a competition in a way that emphasizes the importance of winning or succeeding.

Similar spelling word for FOR KEEPS

• forceps.