The phrase "keep under" means to control or manage something or someone. The phonetic transcription of this phrase in IPA is /kiːp/ /ˈʌndər/. The first syllable is pronounced as "keep" with a long "e" sound and the second syllable is pronounced as "un-der" with a short "u" sound. When writing this phrase, it is important to remember to use the preposition "under" and not "below" or "beneath" as they have slightly different meanings.
To "keep under" is a phrasal verb that has multiple definitions depending on the context in which it is used.
1. To control or restrain someone or something: When used in this sense, "keep under" means to exercise authority or influence over someone or something in order to maintain control or discipline. This can refer to keeping someone under supervision, control, or surveillance, or to keep something restrained or contained. For example, "The teacher kept the students under control during the assembly" or "The company's strict policies help keep costs under control."
2. To hide or not divulge something: In this sense, "keep under" means to keep information, feelings, or thoughts hidden or secret. It implies not sharing or revealing something intentionally. For instance, "She kept her true feelings about the situation under wraps" or "He kept his financial difficulties under wraps until the last minute."
3. To keep someone in a subordinate position: When used in this sense, "keep under" refers to maintaining someone in a lower rank or position, often in an unfair or exploitative way. For example, "The supervisor kept his subordinates under their assigned roles to maintain his power."
Overall, "keep under" has flexible meanings, but it generally refers to exercise control, restrain, hide or subordinate someone or something.