for keeps

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

I’d been friendly with the group before, but now we were bonded for keeps.

From The Wall Street Journal • Sep. 25, 2025

He kept an eye out for Selener — and now he has her for keeps.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 12, 2024

"Penny Lane is in our ears and in our eyes - and this time it's for keeps."

From BBC • Nov. 28, 2023

The Pistons moved ahead for keeps on a dunk by Isaiah Stewart that broke a 50-50 tie midway through the second quarter.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 17, 2022

“They’re bound to go under now, but if you can’t play for keeps, you shouldn’t be in the business in the first piace. And Kowalski never could play for keeps. And Hoodhood and Associates can.”

From "The Wednesday Wars" by Gary D. Schmidt