Remain vs Stay
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Remain | Stay | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | To stay in the same place or condition. | to remain in a place or not leave |
| CEFR level | B1 | A1 |
| Part of speech | verb | |
| Usage notes | Use 'remain' in both written and spoken English. It's suitable for formal contexts, like reports or discussions, but also works in everyday conversation. Avoid using it in casual slang as it sounds too formal. | Use 'stay' when you want to express remaining somewhere, often temporary. It's versatile for casual and formal contexts. Avoid using it in highly formal writing. |
Frequently asked questions: Remain vs Stay
What's the difference between "Remain" and "Stay"?
"Remain" means: To stay in the same place or condition. "Stay" means: to remain in a place or not leave
When should I use "Remain" and "Stay"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "Remain" and "Stay" the same CEFR level?
"Remain" is at B1, "Stay" is at A1 on the CEFR scale.