Remain vs. Retain

Attribute	Remain	Retain
Definition	to continue to exist or stay in the same place	to keep possession of something
Usage	often used in the context of staying or being left over	often used in the context of keeping or holding onto something
Meaning	to stay or be left over after others have gone	to keep or maintain possession or control of something
Examples	He decided to remain at the party until the end.	She wanted to retain ownership of the property.

When it comes to the words "remain" and "retain," many people often confuse the two due to their similar spellings and meanings. However, these two words have distinct attributes that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the differences between "remain" and "retain" in terms of their definitions, usage, and connotations.

Definitions

First and foremost, let's clarify the definitions of "remain" and "retain." "Remain" is a verb that means to stay in the same place or condition, to continue to exist, or to be left after the rest has been used or dealt with. On the other hand, "retain" is also a verb that means to keep possession of something or to continue to hold or have something. While both words involve the idea of keeping something, they differ in the context in which they are used.

Usage

One key difference between "remain" and "retain" lies in their usage. "Remain" is often used to describe something that is left behind or still present after a certain event or period of time. For example, you might say, "Only a few pieces of cake remain after the party." On the other hand, "retain" is commonly used to indicate the act of keeping or holding onto something. For instance, you could say, "She decided to retain ownership of the company." In this way, "remain" is more about what is left over, while "retain" is about actively holding onto something.

Connotations

Another aspect to consider when comparing "remain" and "retain" is their connotations. "Remain" often carries a sense of passive existence or continuation. It implies that something is staying in a particular state without much action or effort involved. On the other hand, "retain" has a more active connotation, suggesting that there is a deliberate choice or effort to keep something. When you retain something, you are consciously deciding to hold onto it, rather than simply letting it be.

Examples

To further illustrate the differences between "remain" and "retain," let's look at some examples of how these words are used in sentences:

• "After the storm, only a few trees remain standing in the forest."
• "She decided to remain silent during the meeting."
• "The company chose to retain its top employees by offering higher salaries."
• "It is important to retain customers by providing excellent service."

As you can see from these examples, "remain" is used to describe what is left over or still present, while "retain" is used to indicate the act of keeping or holding onto something. Understanding the nuances of these words can help you use them correctly in your writing and communication.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while "remain" and "retain" may seem similar at first glance, they have distinct attributes that differentiate them in terms of their definitions, usage, and connotations. "Remain" is more about what is left over or still present, while "retain" is about actively holding onto something. By understanding the differences between these two words, you can use them effectively in your writing and communication.