- To keep someone informed and updated about the ongoing progress or developments of a situation, project, or plan.
Explanation
Origin
- The loop refers to a closed circuit of communication or a circle of informed insiders (like a feedback loop or intelligence loop). Being in the loop means being part of this group.
- Became common in the mid-20th century.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Keep me posted. (Very common, slightly less formal)
- Gimme the scoop. / Gimme the lowdown. / What's the word? (Asking for info/updates, more demand-like, casual)
- Lemme know what's good. / Lemme know what's happening. (Casual request for updates, AAVE influence)
Milder/Standard:
- Please keep me informed.
- Please provide updates.
More Formal:
- Ensure I am apprised of developments.
- Maintain regular communication regarding this matter.
Situational Appropriateness
- Very common and appropriate in professional/work settings.
- Also used informally among friends/family about plans or ongoing news (Keep me in the loop about your job search!).
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Generally clear. Explain the loop metaphorically means the circle of informed people.
Examples
- Please keep me in the loop regarding the client's feedback.
- Make sure the project manager is kept in the loop on all major decisions.
Dialogue
Team Lead: I'm heading out for vacation next week. Sarah will be covering for me.
Manager: Okay, thanks for letting me know. Sarah, please keep me in the loop on any urgent issues that arise.
Sarah: Absolutely. I'll email you daily summaries and call if anything critical happens.
Manager: Perfect, thank you.
Social Media Examples
- Group Project Chat: Hey all, I've started drafting the intro section. Will share it later today and keep you in the loop on progress. #teamwork #collaboration
- Email Signature Snippet: Please keep me in the loop on Project X developments while I'm out of office.
Response Patterns
- Will do. / Okay.
- Sure thing, I'll send you updates.
- Yep, I'll CC you.
- Count on it.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After agreeing to keep someone in the loop:
- May clarify *how* updates will be shared (Should I email?, Add you to the group chat?).
The person being kept in the loop:
- Might occasionally ask for an update if none is received (Any news?, Just checking in for an update.).
Conversation Starter
- No. It's usually a request or instruction related to an ongoing situation.
Intonation
- Stress usually on KEEP and LOOP. Please KEEP me in the LOOP.
- Tone is typically a request or instruction, usually neutral or professional.
Generation Differences
- Widely understood and used across generations, especially wherever information sharing is key.
Regional Variations
- Common across English-speaking regions.