I maintain that

USAGE SUMMARY

'I maintain that' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express a strongly held opinion about a certain topic. For example, "I maintain that the best way to reach an agreement is through diplomacy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"If you say 'I will keep this and exterminate that', I maintain that's not a morally proper position.

The Guardian

And I maintain that is where the joy of making music is as well.

Huffington Post

I maintain that I did nothing wrong.

The Guardian

After reviewing more tape of Kirkpatrick, I maintain that ranking.

The New York Times

Yet, I maintain that this trend had its costs.

The New York Times

And I maintain that that is a healthy, honest laugh.

The New Yorker

I maintain that it is the incapacity to love".

The New York Times

But I maintain that the Tooth Fairy is real".

The New York Times

But I maintain that it belongs on the list.

The New York Times - Style

"As far as the newsletter goes, I maintain that they weren't my positions," he says.

The New Yorker

I maintain that it looks more like a rugby player's bruised and engorged ear.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I maintain that" when you want to express a conviction you are prepared to defend. It's stronger than "I believe" but less aggressive than "I insist".

Common error

Avoid using "I maintain that" repeatedly in close succession. Vary your language with phrases like "I believe", "I contend", or "In my view" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I maintain that" functions as a declarative statement, used to introduce a point of view or assertion that the speaker or writer holds firmly. It emphasizes the speaker's conviction. Ludwig confirms its proper usage in expressing strong beliefs.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Formal & Business

22%

Science

12%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I maintain that" is a versatile phrase used to express a strong belief or opinion across various contexts, as confirmed by Ludwig. It's grammatically correct and most frequently found in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science sources. When writing, using it sparingly, and consider its formality level. Related phrases like "I contend that" or "I believe that" can offer variety. Ludwig's analysis confirms its broad applicability and provides ample examples of its usage in reputable sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I contend that

Slightly more formal and argumentative than "I maintain that".

I assert that

Emphasizes a confident declaration of a fact or belief.

I insist that

Implies a firm and unwavering stance on a particular point.

I believe that

Conveys a personal conviction, potentially less forceful than "I maintain that".

I am convinced that

Expresses a strong sense of certainty about something.

It is my firm belief that

More emphatic and formal way of expressing a strong conviction.

In my opinion

Indicates a personal viewpoint or assessment.

I am of the opinion that

Formal way to introduce a personal belief or judgment.

I am sure that

Expresses confidence or certainty about something.

I stand by

Means to uphold or defend something, but is slightly more informal and less forceful than "I maintain that".

FAQs

What does "I maintain that" mean?

The phrase "I maintain that" means "I insist is true", "I strongly believe that", or "I stand by the fact that". It's used to express a firm belief or opinion, often in the face of possible disagreement or doubt.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "I maintain that"?

Use "I maintain that" when you want to assert a point strongly, especially when it might be contested. It's suitable for formal discussions, debates, or writing where you need to express conviction.

What are some alternatives to saying "I maintain that"?

You can use alternatives like "I believe that", "I contend that", "I assert that", or "in my opinion" depending on the context and level of formality you want to convey.

Is "I maintain that" a formal or informal expression?

"I maintain that" leans towards being a more formal expression. While acceptable in many contexts, it carries a weight of conviction suitable for professional writing or formal debate, consider less assertive alternatives such as "I think" or "I believe" in informal setting.