Definitions and Examples of maintain, preserve, retain
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
To keep something in its original state or condition.
Example
He had to maintain the car regularly to ensure it ran smoothly.
To keep something in its original state or condition, especially to prevent decay or spoilage.
Example
The museum works hard to preserve the artifacts for future generations.
To keep something in one's possession or control; to continue to have something.
Example
She was able to retain her title as champion for three years in a row.
Key Differences: maintain vs preserve vs retain
- 1Maintain is used to describe the act of keeping something in its original state or condition.
- 2Preserve is used to describe the act of keeping something in its original state or condition, especially to prevent decay or spoilage.
- 3Retain is used to describe the act of keeping something in one's possession or control.
Effective Usage of maintain, preserve, retain
- 1Academic Writing: Use these antonyms to express contrasting ideas in academic papers.
- 2Business Communication: Incorporate these antonyms in business writing to convey specific meanings.
- 3Everyday Conversation: Utilize these antonyms in everyday conversations to express different ideas and perspectives.
Remember this!
The antonyms maintain, preserve, and retain convey the idea of keeping something in its original state or position. Use these words to express contrasting ideas in academic writing, convey specific meanings in business communication, and express different ideas and perspectives in everyday conversations.
