maintain — meaning in English: maintain

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for maintain

customer

difficult

fish

weapon

maintain

Skip this question

🎓

Learn English for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use 'maintain' in contexts related to keeping something in its current state or condition. For example, one might say, 'I need to maintain my car to ensure it runs smoothly,' or in a professional setting, 'It's essential to maintain good communication among team members.'

Synonyms & nuances

'Maintain' shares similarities with synonyms like 'preserve' and 'sustain.' However, 'preserve' often implies protecting something from decay or harm, while 'sustain' emphasizes the idea of supporting something over time. You would choose 'maintain' when focusing on the act of keeping something functioning or in good condition.

Culture

'Maintain' has its roots in the Latin word 'manu tenere,' meaning 'to hold in the hand.' This etymology reflects the concept of holding onto something, whether it’s an object, a relationship, or a standard of quality. Interestingly, the term is often used in various fields, from mechanics to healthcare, illustrating its versatility in everyday language.

FAQ

Q.What does maintain mean in English?

To maintain means to keep something in a particular state or condition. It involves ongoing effort to ensure that something remains functional or intact.

Q.How do you use maintain in a sentence?

You can use 'maintain' in sentences like 'She works hard to maintain her fitness level' or 'We need to maintain our equipment to prevent breakdowns.'

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using maintain?

A common mistake is using 'maintain' when 'obtain' is intended. Remember, 'maintain' relates to keeping something, while 'obtain' means to acquire or get something.

Learn english with Maspeak →

English 1000