Pronunciation: [kˈiːps klˈi͡ə] (IPA) 
The phrase "keeps clear" is spelled with the IPA symbols /kiːps klɪr/. The first word, "keeps," is pronounced with a long "e" sound followed by a "p" sound and an "s" sound. The second word, "clear," starts with a "k" sound followed by a "l" sound and ends with an "ear" sound. This phrase means to avoid something or steer clear of it. It is important to spell words correctly to convey their intended meaning accurately.
"Keeps clear" is a phrase used to describe the action or state of maintaining a specific distance, space, or freedom from something. It implies avoiding interactions, entanglements, or conflicts with a particular thing or situation.
In a literal sense, "keeps clear" can refer to avoiding physical contact with objects or obstacles. For instance, it can be used to caution someone to maintain a safe distance from a moving vehicle or to steer away from potential hazards. In this context, it emphasizes the importance of staying vigilant and leaving sufficient space to avoid accidents or collisions.
Figuratively, "keeps clear" is often used to describe an individual's deliberate efforts to distance themselves emotionally, mentally, or socially from unwanted or negative associations. It suggests a conscious decision to avoid becoming involved, participating, or being influenced by certain people, events, or circumstances. It may indicate an attempt to remain free from entanglements, conflicts, or complications that might hinder progress or personal well-being.
Furthermore, "keeps clear" can also be employed to advise someone to maintain clarity of thought or expression. It highlights the importance of avoiding confusion, ambiguity, or misunderstanding in communication. This aspect emphasizes the need to express oneself concisely, logically, and precisely, in order to convey information effectively and be easily understood by others.
Overall, "keeps clear" refers to the act of maintaining a safe distance, avoiding unwanted associations, and ensuring clarity, both in a physical and metaphorical sense.
The phrase "keeps clear" does not have a distinct etymology on its own. "Keep clear" is a compound verb phrase made up of the verb "keep" and the adjective "clear". However, both "keep" and "clear" have their own etymologies.
1. Keep: The word "keep" originated from the Old English word "cēpan", which means "to care for" or "to preserve". It is related to the Old High German word "kāfōn" and the Gothic word "kaupon" with similar meanings. Over time, "keep" came to have various senses, including "to hold", "to guard", "to maintain", and "to possess".
2. Clear: The word "clear" comes from the Old English word "clǣr", which meant "bright" or "shining".
