to remain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'to remain' is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that is continuing to stay the same or that is keeping a certain quality intact. For example, "We must do our part to remain vigilant against any potential threats."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Is she to remain?

The New Yorker

Try to remain cool.

The New York Times - Magazine

Most want to remain anonymous.

The New York Times - Tech

"We have to remain calm".

The New York Times - Sports

Others prefer to remain invisible.

Independent

We have to remain united".

The New York Times

"It is to remain Rubio".

The New York Times

Their fleas tend to remain.

The New Yorker

"It's difficult to remain calm".

Independent

Fuller allowed Howard to remain.

The New Yorker

I tried to remain calm.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to remain" to express a continuation of a state, condition, or position. It's particularly effective in formal contexts where you want to convey stability or persistence.

Common error

While "to remain" is grammatically correct, avoid overusing it in informal writing or speech. Simpler alternatives like "to stay" or "to keep" might be more appropriate in casual settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to remain" primarily functions as an infinitive, often used with auxiliary verbs or as part of a larger verb phrase. As Ludwig AI confirms, it signifies continuing in a particular state or location, as evidenced by examples like "to remain calm" or "to remain anonymous".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to remain" is a versatile and frequently used infinitive phrase signifying the continuation of a state, condition, or position. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's grammatically correct and commonly found in news and media, as well as formal writing. While "to remain" is generally neutral to formal, simpler alternatives like "to stay" might be more appropriate in informal contexts. To ensure effective communication, remember to use "to remain" to convey stability and persistence, and avoid overusing it in casual conversation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to stay

This alternative is a more direct and simpler way of expressing the idea of staying in a place or condition.

to continue to be

This alternative emphasizes the ongoing nature of a state or condition.

to persist

This alternative suggests a more determined or stubborn continuation.

to abide

This alternative carries a sense of adhering to a rule or agreement.

to endure

This alternative highlights the ability to withstand hardship while continuing.

to last

This alternative focuses on the duration or length of the continuation.

to carry on

This alternative implies continuing an activity or task.

to keep on

Similar to "carry on", this suggests the continuation of an action.

to sustain

This alternative emphasizes maintaining a certain level or standard.

to uphold

This alternative suggests maintaining principles or values.

FAQs

How can I use "to remain" in a sentence?

You can use "to remain" to indicate that something stays in a particular state or condition. For example, "It is important "to remain calm" during stressful situations".

What are some alternatives to "to remain"?

Alternatives to "to remain" include "to stay", "to continue to be", or "to persist", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more formal to say "to remain" than "to stay"?

Yes, "to remain" generally carries a more formal tone than "to stay". "To remain" is often used in official documents or formal speech.

When should I use "to remain" instead of "to keep"?

Use "to remain" when emphasizing the continuation of a state or condition. Use "to keep" when emphasizing maintaining something actively, such as "to keep a secret".