preserve
pri-ZURV
prɪˈzɜːrv
To keep something in its original state or in good condition; to protect from decay or change.
Preserve often implies keeping something exactly as it is, preventing any change at all.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'prae' (before) and 'servare' (to keep). It literally means to keep something safe before any harm can come to it.
Word relationships
- maintain: Maintain implies keeping something functional, while preserve implies keeping it in its original form.
- uphold: Uphold is usually used for laws or principles rather than physical objects.
- destroy: To end the existence of something entirely.
- neglect: To fail to care for something, leading to its decay.
Commonly confused with
- conserve: Preserve means to keep unchanged; conserve means to use wisely or protect from waste.
Word family
- preservation (noun): The act of keeping something in its original state.
- preservative (noun): A substance used to prevent decay.
Collocations
- preserve the environment
- preserve a tradition
- preserve the status quo
Example sentences
- "The goal of the national park system is to preserve the wilderness for future generations." Environmental policy
- "Salt was historically used to preserve meat before the invention of refrigeration." Culinary arts
Memory hook
Think of 'pre-serving' a piece of history so it stays fresh for the future. Keep it as it is.
When not to use
Avoid using 'preserve' when you mean 'protect from future harm' in a general sense (use 'protect') or when referring to saving money (use 'save').
Fun facts
- The word 'preserves' (as in jam) uses this root because the sugar keeps the fruit from rotting.
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