The Opposite(Antonym) of “replace”
The antonyms of replace are keep, retain, and preserve. The antonyms convey the opposite meaning of replacing something with a new or different thing. They imply keeping or maintaining something in its current state.
Definitions and Examples of keep, retain, preserve
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
To continue to have or hold something; not to give it away or dispose of it.
Example
I want to keep this old book because it has sentimental value.
To keep possession of something; to continue to have it.
Example
The company decided to retain its current employees despite the economic downturn.
To maintain something in its original or existing state; to prevent it from being damaged or destroyed.
Example
The museum's mission is to preserve historical artifacts for future generations.
Key Differences: keep vs retain vs preserve
- 1Keep implies continuing to possess or hold onto something without necessarily preserving it in its original state.
- 2Retain is similar to keep but often implies a more formal or official context, such as retaining an employee or retaining ownership of a property.
- 3Preserve implies actively taking steps to maintain something in its original or existing state, often to prevent damage or decay.
Effective Usage of keep, retain, preserve
- 1Business: Use retain to refer to keeping employees or customers.
- 2Environment: Use preserve to talk about protecting natural resources or habitats.
- 3Personal: Use keep to talk about holding onto personal possessions or memories.
Remember this!
The antonyms of replace are keep, retain, and preserve. While keep and retain imply continuing to possess or hold onto something, preserve implies actively taking steps to maintain something in its original or existing state. These words can be used in various contexts such as business, environment, and personal life.
