the remainder

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'the remainder' is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to refer to the remaining or leftover parts of something, either physical or figurative. Example: We have divided the cake into four equal parts, and the remainder we will store in the fridge.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The remainder is water.

The New Yorker

South claimed the remainder.

The New York Times

The remainder comes from hydroelectricity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Now South claimed the remainder.

The New York Times

He paid the remainder himself.

The New York Times - Arts

The market mistrusts the remainder.

The Economist

AvalonBay will own the remainder.

The New York Times

The remainder had no coverage.

The New Yorker

The remainder would be stock.

The New York Times

The remainder comes from brine.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The remainder live in villages.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the remainder" to clearly indicate the portion left after something has been subtracted, used, or consumed. This ensures clarity in your writing, especially when dealing with quantities or divisions.

Common error

Avoid using "remainder" when you mean "reminder". "Remainder" refers to what's left over, while "reminder" is something that helps you remember. For example, use "the remainder of the cake" versus "a reminder of the party".

Linguistic Context

"The remainder" functions primarily as a noun phrase, referring to the part that is left over after something has been removed, used, or consumed. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage, exemplified in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

17%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the remainder" is a versatile and commonly used noun phrase that refers to what is left over after a portion has been removed or consumed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appears frequently in diverse sources, especially in News & Media, Encyclopedias, Wiki, and Science. To enhance clarity, especially in formal contexts, consider alternatives like "the remaining part" or "the residual amount". When writing, avoid confusion with "reminder" and ensure you're using "the remainder" when referring to a remaining quantity rather than a prompt for memory. Its widespread use and clear meaning make it a reliable choice for expressing leftover quantities or portions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the remaining part

A more explicit and descriptive alternative.

the rest

A shorter, more informal way to express the same concept.

the balance

Focuses on the remaining amount or quantity.

the leftover portion

Highlights that the portion is unused or unconsumed.

the residual amount

Highlights the numerical aspect of the remaining quantity.

the residue

Emphasizes the leftover part, often implying something unwanted or less significant.

the unconsumed portion

Emphasizes that the portion has not been used or finished.

the surplus

Implies that the remaining amount is in excess of what is needed.

the remnant

Suggests that the remainder is a small or dwindling portion.

the outstanding balance

Specific to situations involving finances or accounts.

FAQs

How can I use "the remainder" in a sentence?

You can use "the remainder" to refer to the portion left after something is used or removed, as in "I ate half the pizza, and saved "the remainder" for later".

What's a formal alternative to "the remainder"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "the residual amount", "the outstanding balance", or "the remaining portion" instead of "the remainder".

Is it ever incorrect to use "the remainder"?

While generally correct, avoid using "the remainder" when a more specific term is appropriate. For example, if discussing money, "the remaining funds" might be clearer.

What's the difference between "the remainder" and "the rest"?

"The rest" is a more informal and general term, while "the remainder" often implies a more precise or quantifiable leftover. You might say "I'll eat the rest later", but use "the remainder" when specifying quantities.