Keep close
Retain and keep close are semantically related. in cling to topic. In some cases you can use "Retain" instead a verb phrase "Keep close", when it comes to topics like grasp.
Retain
Retain verb - To continue to have in one's possession or power.
Mutual synonyms
Cite this Source
Retain and Keep close. (2016). Retrieved 2026, August 16, from https://thesaurus.plus/related/keep_close/retain
Keep close & Retain. N.p., 2016. Web. 16 Aug. 2026. <https://thesaurus.plus/related/keep_close/retain>.
Retain or Keep close. 2016. Accessed August 16, 2026. https://thesaurus.plus/related/keep_close/retain.
Google Ngram Viewer shows how "keep close" and "retain" have occurred on timeline