retain that position

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "retain that position" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing maintaining a specific role, stance, or viewpoint in a particular context. Example: "Despite the challenges, she was determined to retain that position within the company."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Willie Walsh, chief executive of British Airways, would retain that position at the top of the combined group while Antonio Vázquez, Iberia's chief executive, would become chairman.

The New York Times

The cost per click depends on the amount of money needed to retain that position, the time of day, the region, the keyword and other variables.

The New York Times

Thomas J. Wallace, who became editorial director in 2005, will retain that position, focusing on operations and developing new platforms for content.

The New York Times

James E. O'Connor, Republic's chairman and chief executive, will hold those titles in the new company, while Allied Waste's president and chief operating officer, Don Slager, will retain that position.

The New York Times

The current heir to the throne, Prince Charles, will retain that position, and is in any case the oldest child of his parents, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.

The New York Times

Aleksandr Kokorin Only 23 and a relative newcomer to the international stage, the Dynamo Moscow player has emerged as first-choice striker under Fabio Capello and is expected to retain that position in Brazil at the expense of the experienced Aleksandr Kerzhakov.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

He retained that position until his death.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He became the leader of the Phalange Party in 1937, retaining that position until 1980.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It succeeded Bingerville as capital of the French colony in 1934 and retained that position after independence in 1960.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Under Prime Minister Katsura Tarō he retained that position, also serving concurrently as minister of interior and minister of education.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In 1937 Hansen was appointed as the first Littauer Professor of Political Economy at Harvard University, and he retained that position until his retirement in 1962.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "retain that position", ensure the context clearly establishes what "that position" refers to. Clarity is key to avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "retain that position" when referring to abstract qualities or concepts that cannot be held in the same way as a job or title. It is best used for concrete roles.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "retain that position" functions as a verbal phrase, often part of a larger clause, indicating the action of keeping or maintaining a specific role or status. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in professional and organizational contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

20%

Wiki

18%

Less common in

Science

17%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "retain that position" is a grammatically sound and usable expression, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. It serves to indicate the act of maintaining a role, title, or status and is commonly found in news, encyclopedic, and professional contexts. While there are more formal alternatives like "maintain that post" and less formal ones, such as ""hold onto that role"", it is crucial to ensure clarity regarding what "that position" refers to, according to Ludwig. This will help avoid ambiguity in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

maintain that post

Focuses on preserving a specific job or duty.

hold onto that role

Suggests a strong effort to keep a position.

keep that status

Emphasizes the preservation of social standing or condition.

preserve that office

More formal, often related to official or governmental roles.

sustain that rank

Refers to maintaining a specific level or grade.

uphold that title

Highlights maintaining a formal designation or honor.

secure that spot

Focuses on ensuring a place or position is firmly held.

defend that seat

Implies active resistance against losing a position.

cling to that position

Indicates a desperate attempt to keep a position, often against odds.

hang onto that title

Informal way of saying keep the title, which suggests effort.

FAQs

How can I use "retain that position" in a sentence?

You can use "retain that position" to indicate that someone or something has managed to keep a certain role or status. For example: "Despite the merger, the CEO will "retain that position"".

What are some alternatives to "retain that position"?

Alternatives to "retain that position" include phrases like "maintain that post", "hold onto that role", or "keep that status", depending on the specific context.

Is it more formal to say "retain that position" or "keep that position"?

"Retain that position" generally sounds more formal than "keep that position". "Retain" suggests a more official or long-term maintenance of a role or status, while "keep" is more general.

What's the difference between "retain that position" and "secure that spot"?

"Retain that position" implies already holding a role and continuing to do so, while "secure that spot" suggests making an effort to obtain and keep something that was not already possessed.