The phrase "were keeping" can be described by a wide range of synonyms which convey various meanings. Some alternative phrases include "holding onto," "retaining," "preserving," "maintaining," "upholding," "sustaining," "conserving," and "protecting." These synonyms suggest that the object or action being referred to is being kept safe or guarded for a specific purpose. Other synonyms for "were keeping" include "hiding," "concealing," "withholding," "detaining," and "imprisoning," which imply a more secretive or coercive approach to keeping something. Ultimately, the choice of synonym will depend on the nuances of the context and the intended emphasis of the speaker or writer.