What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
retainer
Example
The lawyer required a retainer fee before taking on the case. [retainer: noun]
Example
The consultant was hired as a retainer to provide ongoing support to the company. [retainer: noun]
Example
The orthodontist recommended a retainer to keep the teeth in place after braces. [retainer: noun]
remainder
Example
After dividing the pizza, there was a remainder that we saved for later. [remainder: noun]
Example
The bookstore discounted the price of the remainder books to clear inventory. [remainder: adjective]
Example
The students stayed after class for the remainder of the lecture. [remainder: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Remainder is more commonly used than retainer in everyday language. Remainder is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while retainer is more specific to legal or business contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between retainer and remainder?
While retainer is typically associated with a formal tone, remainder is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
