- A polite phrase used to acknowledge information, advice, or a suggestion.
- It signifies the speaker has heard and registered the point.
- However, it's often non-committal and doesn't guarantee the speaker will act on it. It can sometimes be used as a polite way to dismiss unsolicited advice.
Explanation
Origin
- Standard phrase using the common idiom keep in mind (or bear in mind), meaning to remember or consider something.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Noted.
- Gotcha. / Got it.
- Word. (Acknowledgement)
- Cool, thanks.
- (Dismissive) Yeah, yeah. / Whatever.
More Sincere/Committed:
- That's really helpful, thank you.
- I'll definitely consider that.
- That's a great suggestion, I'll look into it.
- Good point, I hadn't thought of that.
More Formal:
- Thank you, I shall take that into consideration.
- That information is duly noted.
- I appreciate your input.
Situational Appropriateness
- Widely used in both informal and formal settings.
- Crucially dependent on tone. Can range from genuinely appreciative (Thanks, that's useful to know) to politely dismissive (Thanks, but I'm not interested).
- Use with caution if you want to convey strong agreement or definite intention to act.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- The biggest risk is non-native speakers taking it as a firm commitment to consider or act, especially when native speakers often use it non-committally or dismissively. The flat, quick delivery often signals dismissal.
Examples
- You should try the Italian restaurant on Elm Street. Okay, I'll keep that in mind.
- Remember to back up your files regularly. Good point, I'll keep that in mind.
- (After unsolicited parenting advice) Hmm, I'll keep that in mind. (Tone likely indicates dismissal)
Dialogue
Friend 1: Maybe you should take a break? You seem really stressed.
Friend 2: Yeah... maybe you're right. I'll keep that in mind. Thanks.
Friend 1: No problem. Just look after yourself.
Social Media Examples
- Comment on a blog post with tips: Some great ideas here, thanks! I'll keep that in mind for my next project.
- Reply to an unsolicited DM offering business advice: Thanks for reaching out. I'll keep that in mind. (Potentially dismissive)
Response Patterns
- Great! / Good.
- Okay.
- Let me know if you decide to try it/do it.
- Often, no specific response is needed, just a nod or moving on in the conversation.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After hearing I'll keep that in mind:
- Usually no direct follow-up is needed, as the phrase often serves to acknowledge and close that specific point.
- If the speaker was sincere, they might refer back to the information later (Remember you told me about...? Well, I tried it...).
Action:
- The listener registers the information for potential future consideration (or dismisses it internally).
Conversation Starter
- No. It's a response to receiving information or advice.
Intonation
- Can vary significantly based on intent.
- Sincere acknowledgement: Neutral, polite tone, stress on keep and mind. I'll KEEP that in MIND.
- Dismissive acknowledgement: Flatter tone, perhaps quicker pace, less emphasis. Can sound final. I'll keep that in mind.
Generation Differences
- Common across generations.
Regional Variations
- Standard across English-speaking regions.