C1noun3K

Remainder

UK /["/rɪˈmeɪndə(r)/"]/US /["/rɪˈmeɪndər/"]/

Definition

the people, things or time that remain

In simple words: What's left after removing something

Examples

  • I kept some of his books and gave away the remainder.
  • He was silent throughout the remainder of the journey.
  • If you don't have enough cash with you can pay the remainder tomorrow.
  • In the remainder of this chapter we shall compare the two methods.
  • She was an invalid for the remainder of her life.
  • Divide 2 into 7, and the answer is 3, remainder 1.

Usage notes

Commonly used in both mathematical and everyday contexts. In formal writing, it refers to the part remaining after something has been taken away. Avoid using in overly casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

remainder + of + object

Memory hint

Think of 'remainder' as 'remaining', they both mean what's left over.

Collocations

  • remainder of a number
  • remainder after division
  • remainder from the budget

Synonyms

  • rest

Antonyms

  • whole
  • total

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'reminder' - don't mix up the two meanings.
  • Using 'remainder' when 'remaining' would be correct.
  • Saying 'the remainder of' instead of 'the remainder from'.