Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
to keep something at bay
idiom
/tuː kiːp ˈsʌmθɪŋ æt beɪ/
Definition
To prevent something from affecting you or to control a situation from getting worse.
Examples
- He took some precautions to keep the rising tensions at bay.
- By exercising regularly, she was able to keep her stress levels at bay.
- The government is trying to keep inflation at bay through careful financial policies.
Meaning
This phrase is often used to express the idea of managing or controlling a problem, preventing it from becoming more serious or impacting your life.
Synonyms
- to fend off
- to hold back
- to deter
