Maintaining synonym,synonyms of maintaining
1. Preserving
- Similarity: Both “maintaining” and “preserving” involve the idea of keeping something in a particular state. When you maintain a machine, you keep it in working order, and when you preserve a historical building, you keep it in its existing state as much as possible. They both imply an effort to prevent decline or change. For example, a museum curator might be responsible for maintaining and preserving valuable artworks. In both cases, the goal is to uphold the integrity, quality, or existence of the object in question.
- Usage difference: “Preserving” often has a stronger connotation of protecting something from decay, damage, or loss. It is frequently used in relation to things of cultural, historical, or environmental significance. For instance, we talk about preserving endangered species, ancient manuscripts, or traditional cultures. “Maintaining” is more general and can refer to keeping up the normal operation or condition of a wide variety of things, from physical objects like cars to abstract concepts like relationships.
2. Sustaining
- Similarity: “Sustaining” is related to “maintaining” in that it also means to keep something going or in existence. Sustaining a business is similar to maintaining it; both involve ensuring its continued operation. Both words imply an ongoing effort over time. For example, a farmer needs to take measures to sustain/maintain the fertility of the soil for continuous crop production. They both convey the idea of providing the necessary support for something to endure.
- Usage difference: “Sustaining” often has a sense of providing the resources or support needed for long - term survival or continuation. It is commonly used in contexts related to the environment, such as sustainable development, which implies meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. “Maintaining” can be more about the routine actions to keep something in a set state, like maintaining a clean house through regular cleaning.
3. Upholding
- Similarity: “Upholding” and “maintaining” share the concept of keeping something in place or valid. When you uphold a principle, it's like maintaining it; you are ensuring that it remains in force. In a legal or moral context, upholding the law or moral values is similar to maintaining them. Both involve a sense of not allowing something to be undermined or weakened. For example, a judge is expected to uphold the law, just as a person might maintain their ethical standards.
- Usage difference: “Upholding” is more commonly used in relation to abstract concepts such as laws, principles, traditions, or reputations. It often implies a sense of defense or support for something that has a certain status or importance. “Maintaining” can be used for a wider range of applications, including physical objects, systems, and non - abstract things like health or a level of performance.
4. Retaining
- Similarity: “Retaining” and “maintaining” both involve the idea of keeping something. When you retain information, you keep it in your memory, and when you maintain a certain skill, you keep it at a particular level. They both imply not losing or letting go of something. For example, a company might try to retain its employees (keep them from leaving), similar to how it maintains its customer base (keeps it at a certain size or quality).
- Usage difference: “Retaining” is more focused on the act of holding onto something, often with the sense of preventing its loss. It is frequently used in relation to things like possessions, employees, or information. “Maintaining” is broader and can include actions to improve or at least keep at a steady state, not just prevent loss. For example, you can maintain a garden by watering, pruning, etc., which is more than just retaining the plants in the garden.