What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reserve
Example
I need to reserve some money for emergencies. [reserve: verb]
Example
We should reserve a table at the restaurant for Friday night. [reserve: verb]
Example
She tried to reserve her anger and remain calm. [reserve: verb]
conserve
Example
We need to conserve water during the drought. [conserve: verb]
Example
He tries to conserve energy by turning off lights when leaving a room. [conserve: verb]
Example
The museum works hard to conserve the artwork in their collection. [conserve: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Reserve is more commonly used than conserve in everyday language, especially in financial or social contexts. Conserve is less common but has a more specific usage related to environmental or natural resource contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between reserve and conserve?
Both reserve and conserve can be used in formal and informal contexts, but reserve may be more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels.
