retain
/rɪˈteɪn/To continue to have or keep something; to keep possession of or control over something.
She managed to retain her composure during the difficult interview.
She was able to keep her calm and poise during the challenging interview.
The company aims to retain its market share by improving customer service.
The company wants to keep its portion of the market by enhancing its customer service.
Often used in formal or professional contexts, such as business, law, or relationships.
To keep someone in a position or role, especially in a job or organization.
The CEO decided to retain the top-performing employees after the merger.
The CEO chose to keep the best-performing employees after the company merger.
Common in human resources and management discussions.
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💡Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal Use
Use 'retain' in formal or professional contexts, such as business, law, or academic writing. In casual conversation, synonyms like 'keep' or 'hold' are more common.
⚡Gold Rule
Transitive Use
'Retain' is typically used with an object. For example, 'She retained her composure' is correct, but 'She retained' without an object is incomplete.
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'retaynen,' from Old French 'retenir,' from Latin 'retinere,' meaning 'to hold back,' from 're-' (back) + 'tenere' (to hold).
📝Usage Notes
Can be used transitively (with an object) or intransitively (without an object). Often used in formal or professional contexts.