maintain that

USAGE SUMMARY

"maintain that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to explain that you have an opinion or belief and that you will keep that opinion or belief. For example, "I maintain that using public transport is better for the environment than using a car."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

How do you maintain that strength?

The New York Times

"I think we should maintain that system.

The Guardian

I just couldn't maintain that level.

The Guardian - Sport

We need to maintain that second factor".

BBC

"We want to maintain that difference.

Forbes

Will they maintain that pace?

Vice

And how do they maintain that class?

Huffington Post

This helps the brain maintain that information.

WikiHow

They maintain that today.

The New York Times

How do we maintain that?

The New York Times

We need to maintain that".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "maintain that" when you want to express a consistent opinion or belief, especially when faced with differing viewpoints or challenges to that belief. It conveys a sense of conviction and steadfastness.

Common error

Avoid using "maintain that" in very casual conversations or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or assertive. Opt for simpler phrases like "believe" or "think" in those situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "maintain that" functions as a verb phrase introducing a subordinate clause expressing a speaker's firm belief or opinion. As Ludwig AI suggests, it indicates a continued defense of a position.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

15%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Science

8%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "maintain that" is a versatile phrase used to express a firm belief or opinion, often in the face of disagreement. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It is frequently found in news and academic contexts, indicating a formal to neutral register. When writing, consider the context and audience to ensure appropriate usage. While it conveys conviction, overusing it in casual settings can sound overly formal. Alternatives like "assert that" or "contend that" can offer nuanced ways to express similar ideas. This guide has addressed common questions and provided best practices to enhance your understanding and effective application of "maintain that".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

assert that

Emphasizes a strong declaration or affirmation of a belief.

contend that

Suggests arguing or stating a point of view as part of a debate.

hold that

Implies a firm and unwavering belief or opinion.

insist that

Highlights a firm and unwavering insistence on a particular point.

profess that

Suggests openly declaring or claiming a belief.

allege that

Implies stating something as a fact without providing proof.

declare that

Emphasizes a formal or official announcement of a belief.

affirm that

Suggests confirming or ratifying a belief with conviction.

attest that

Implies providing evidence or confirmation of a belief.

uphold that

Indicates supporting or defending a belief or principle.

FAQs

How to use "maintain that" in a sentence?

Use "maintain that" when you want to express a consistent opinion or belief, especially when it might be challenged. For example: "I "maintain that" using public transport is better for the environment."

What can I say instead of "maintain that"?

You can use alternatives like "assert that", "contend that", or "hold that" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "maintain that" or "maintains that"?

"Maintain that" is used with plural subjects (e.g., "They "maintain that"..."), while "maintains that" is used with singular subjects (e.g., "He "maintains that"..."). The correct form depends on the subject of the sentence.

What's the difference between "maintain that" and "hold that"?

While both express a belief, ""maintain that"" suggests a continued defense of a position, whereas "hold that" simply expresses a firm belief.