Definitions and Examples of withhold, keep, retain
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
To refuse to give or grant something that is due or expected.
Example
The company decided to withhold bonuses this year due to financial constraints.
To have or retain possession of something.
Example
He decided to keep the book instead of returning it to the library.
To continue to have something; to keep in one's possession.
Example
The company decided to retain its employees despite the economic downturn.
Key Differences: withhold vs keep vs retain
- 1Withhold implies a deliberate act of not giving or granting something that is due or expected.
- 2Keep and retain both imply having or possessing something, but retain suggests a more intentional and ongoing possession.
Effective Usage of withhold, keep, retain
- 1Business Communication: Use withhold, keep, and retain to discuss financial transactions, contracts, and agreements.
- 2Legal Writing: Incorporate these antonyms in legal documents to clarify terms and conditions.
- 3Academic Writing: Utilize these antonyms in research papers and essays to express opposing viewpoints and arguments.
Remember this!
The antonyms of rendered are withhold, keep, and retain. Withhold implies a deliberate act of not giving, while keep and retain suggest having or possessing something. These words can be used in business communication, legal writing, and academic writing to express opposing viewpoints and arguments.