Basic Details
Word: Retain
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To keep something or hold onto it; to not let go of or lose.
Synonyms: Keep, hold, preserve
Antonyms: Lose, release, discard
Idioms and Phrases
- Retain your composure: To stay calm and collected, especially in a difficult situation. Example: "Even when faced with challenges, she managed to retain her composure and think clearly."
- Retain an edge: To keep a competitive advantage. Example: "In order to retain an edge over his competitors, he constantly improved his skills."
Usage Examples
Example 1: Its important to retain the information you learn in school so you can use it later in life.
Example 2: The museum aims to retain its collection of ancient artifacts for future generations to enjoy.
Example 3: She decided to retain her old toys as a reminder of her childhood.
Fun Fact
The word "retain" comes from the Latin word "retinere", which means "to hold back" or "to keep". This reflects the concept of holding onto something rather than letting it go.
Famous Quote
"The only way to retain your character is to keep it in the forefront of your mindevery minute of the day." Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "retain" mean?
a) To lose something
b) To keep something
c) To break something
d) To forget something
Answer: b) To keep something
2. Which of these is a synonym of "retain"?
a) Release
b) Discard
c) Hold
d) Lose
Answer: c) Hold
3. Which word is an antonym of "retain"?
a) Keep
b) Preserve
c) Release
d) Maintain
Answer: c) Release
4. Which sentence uses "retain" correctly?
a) I will retain my umbrella so I won't get wet.
b) I will retain my homework to throw it away.
c) I will retain my favourite book and give it away.
d) I will retain when the phone rings.
Answer: a) I will retain my umbrella so I won't get wet.
5. Which idiom refers to maintaining calmness?
a) Retain the reward
b) Retain your composure
c) Retain your thoughts
d) Retain a friend
Answer: b) Retain your composure
