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Meaning & use

stay on top of

phrase·Everyday

Last updated

UK/ˌsteɪ ɒn ˈtɒp əv/
US/ˌsteɪ ɑːn ˈtɑːp əv/

Meanings

  1. phrasefixed phrase

    to remain in control of a situation or task and deal with it promptly

    Grammar: Takes an object after 'of': stay on top of your work. Often used with 'things' or 'it'.

    Patterns

    • stay on top of something
    • stay on top of things
    • stay on top of it

    If you stay on top of your assignments, you won't have to rush at the end.

    She stays on top of her emails so nothing gets missed.

    It's hard to stay on top of everything when you're busy.

  2. phrasefixed phrase

    to keep yourself informed about the latest developments in something

    Grammar: Often used with news, trends, or changes: stay on top of the news.

    Patterns

    • stay on top of the news
    • stay on top of developments
    • stay on top of trends

    As a journalist, you need to stay on top of the latest news.

    He reads industry blogs to stay on top of new technology.

Common combinations

stay on top of your work
She uses a calendar to stay on top of her work.
stay on top of things
I try to stay on top of things by making lists.
stay on top of the situation
The manager stayed on top of the situation and solved the problem quickly.
stay on top of the news
He checks his phone constantly to stay on top of the news.
stay on top of your emails
It's important to stay on top of your emails during the busy season.

Synonyms and how they differ

keep up with
Focuses on not falling behind, while 'stay on top of' emphasizes control and prompt action.
keep abreast of
More formal and used mainly for information, not tasks.
manage
A general verb meaning to be in charge; 'stay on top of' is more about not letting things pile up.

Opposites

fall behindneglect

Word family

on top of phrase
In control of or informed about something.

Commonly confused: stay on top of or on top of?

stay on top of vs on top of

As a standalone phrase, it can mean 'in addition to' (on top of that) or 'very close to' (on top of the hill). 'Stay on top of' is specifically about control.

Practice

To avoid missing deadlines, you should ______ your tasks regularly.

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