there remain two

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "there remain two" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that two items or individuals are still present or available after others have been removed or accounted for. Example: "After the meeting, there remain two key issues that we need to address."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

Once a fluorescent dye is chosen there remain two key parameters to optimize: The collection and detection efficiency of the microscope.

EPJ Quantum Technology

Beyond that, there remain two important doubts.

The Economist

There remain two to come.

The Guardian - Sport

There remain two shadows over the Texan.

The Guardian - Sport

There remain two additional interrelated reasons for not reaching the constitutional issue.

Cornell University

If one counts them by threes, there remain two of them.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Accordingly, there remain thirty thousand stadia as the above-mentioned length p291 towards the east of the portion now described.

University of Chicago

Yet, for every one job opening, there remain four individuals who are unemployed.

Huffington Post

At present, there remain seven vacancies on the Courts of Appeals for which there are no pending nominees.

Huffington Post

After Clinton had established a broad lead, there remained one especially tempting reason to run.

The New Yorker

One lap, there remained one lap.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "there remain two", ensure that the context clearly indicates what the 'two' refers to. For clarity, specify the items or entities that are remaining.

Common error

Avoid using a singular noun after "remain" when referring to the two items. The correct structure is "there remain two [plural noun]", not "there remain two [singular noun]".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "there remain two" primarily functions as an existential clause, asserting the existence or persistence of two entities. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically sound and used to denote what is left or outstanding from a larger set.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "there remain two" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to indicate that two items or entities persist or are outstanding. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and practical use. The phrase finds frequent application in news, scientific, and academic contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal register. While several alternatives exist, such as "only two remain" and "two are left", they may carry slightly different connotations. When using "there remain two", ensure clarity by specifying what the 'two' refers to. By doing so, you can effectively convey the intended meaning while maintaining grammatical accuracy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

only two remain

Changes the sentence structure to emphasize the exclusivity of the remaining items.

two are still present

Replaces "remain" with "still present" for a more descriptive and less formal tone.

two are left

Uses a simpler verb phrase "are left" to convey the same meaning.

two persist

Employs "persist" to suggest a continued existence despite potential challenges.

a couple are outstanding

Uses "a couple" instead of "two" and "outstanding" to imply that something still needs to be done.

the remaining pair is

Focuses on the "pair" aspect and uses "is" instead of "remain" to emphasize the singularity of the pair.

two continue to exist

Expands "remain" to "continue to exist" for greater emphasis on ongoing existence.

the count is still two

Shifts the focus to the numerical aspect and uses "count" to highlight the quantity.

we're still at two

Uses informal language, appropriate for certain register. This is more appropriate in informal context, less in formal writing.

a duo continues

Replaces "two" with the synonym "duo", implying a pair working together.

FAQs

How do I use "there remain two" in a sentence?

Use "there remain two" to indicate that two items or entities are still present or outstanding from a larger group. For example, "After the initial screening, there remain two candidates for the position".

What can I say instead of "there remain two"?

You can use alternatives like "only two remain", "two are left", or "two are still present" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "there remains two"?

No, it is not grammatically correct. The correct phrase is "there remain two". "Remain" is used because "two" is plural. The term 'there remains two' may be interpreted as a grammatical error.

What's the difference between "there remain two" and "there are two remaining"?

"There remain two" emphasizes the persistence or continuation of the two items, while "there are two remaining" simply states that two items are left. The subtle difference lies in the implication of endurance.