maintain
word
Definition
To keep something in the same condition, level, or state over time. It can also mean to take care of something so it continues to work well, or to continue saying that something is true.
Usage & Nuances
Common patterns: 'maintain a relationship', 'maintain quality', 'maintain equipment', 'maintain that + clause'. It is more formal than 'keep'. For machines and buildings, 'maintain' often means regular care; for opinions, it means 'insist' or 'continue to state'.
Example Sentences
It is hard to maintain a clean room every day.
basic
The school needs money to maintain the building.
basic
She maintains that she did nothing wrong.
basic
We’ve worked hard to maintain trust with our customers.
natural
It takes a lot of time to maintain an old car.
natural
Even after the report came out, he still maintained that the plan would work.
natural