Remain

UK /["/rɪˈmeɪn/","/rɪˈmeɪnz/","/rɪˈmeɪnd/","/rɪˈmeɪnɪŋ/"]/US /["/rɪˈmeɪn/","/rɪˈmeɪnz/","/rɪˈmeɪnd/","/rɪˈmeɪnɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to continue to be something; to be still in the same state or condition

In simple words: To stay in the same place or condition.

Examples

Please remain silent during the presentation.
You should remain calm in stressful situations.
Only a few members of the team will remain after the reshuffle.
Despite the challenges, he chose to remain optimistic about the future.
The house remained untouched after the storm.

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.

Grammar pattern

remain + adjective/noun

Memory hint

Think of 'remain' as 're-main' - you stay the same.

Collocations

remain calm
remain silent
remain in place
remain unchanged
remain focused

Synonyms

stay
continue
last
persist
endure

Antonyms

leave
depart
exit

Common mistakes

Confused with 'stay' - 'remain' feels slightly more formal.
Used incorrectly in passive constructions.
Misplaced in sentences where a continuous tense is needed.