Basic Details
Word: Upkeep
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: The process of keeping something in good condition by taking care of it.
Synonyms: Maintenance, care, preservation
Antonyms: Neglect, abandonment
Idioms and Phrases
- Keep up the upkeep: To continue taking care of something regularly. Example: "If you want your garden to flourish, make sure to keep up the upkeep by watering and weeding it."
- Out of sight, out of upkeep: If something is left unattended, it will likely fall into disrepair. Example: "His bike has been sitting in the garage for months; its true what they say, out of sight, out of upkeep."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The upkeep of the old castle requires a lot of money and effort.
Example 2: Regular maintenance is essential for the upkeep of your car.
Example 3: The school hired extra staff to manage the upkeep of the playground after the busy summer.
Fun Fact
The word "upkeep" comes from the Old English words "up" meaning "higher" and "keep," which means to hold or maintain. It literally refers to the act of maintaining something at a high standard.
Famous Quote
"The upkeep of any successful enterprise depends fundamentally on its ability to adapt." John C. Maxwell
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "upkeep" mean?
a) Turning something into waste
b) The process of keeping something in good condition
c) Building something new
d) Making a mess
Answer: b) The process of keeping something in good condition
2. Which of these is a synonym of "upkeep"?
a) Neglect
b) Maintenance
c) Destruction
d) Decrease
Answer: b) Maintenance
3. Which word is an antonym of "upkeep"?
a) Repair
b) Care
c) Neglect
d) Preserve
Answer: c) Neglect
4. Which sentence uses "upkeep" correctly?
a) The upkeep of the library means it should be used less.
b) Upkeep of the building is important to prevent problems.
c) The upkeep of the food is essential for cooking.
d) He decided to upkeep the book on the shelf.
Answer: b) Upkeep of the building is important to prevent problems.
5. Which idiom relates best to "upkeep"?
a) The straw that broke the camel's back
b) Keep up the upkeep
c) A stitch in time saves nine
d) Every cloud has a silver lining
Answer: b) Keep up the upkeep
