Conserve
/kənˈsɜːrv/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo protect (something, especially an environmental resource) from loss or damage.
/kənˈsɜːrv/
To protect something from damage or loss.
We must conserve our natural resources to protect the planet.
💡 Simply: Imagine you have a delicious slice of cake, and you want to make sure it lasts. Conserving is like carefully keeping that cake safe so you can enjoy it later. For example, you might conserve energy by turning off the lights.
👶 For kids: To save and protect something, like saving water or keeping a toy safe.
More Examples
The government is working to conserve historical buildings.
He tried to conserve his energy for the marathon.
How It's Used
"Efforts to conserve endangered species are crucial."
"She conserved her resources to prepare for a financial crisis."
To keep in existence or maintain (a condition or situation) in order to prevent it from being lost, damaged, or destroyed.
/kənˈsɜːrv/
To keep (something) the same; maintain.
The company is looking to conserve its market share.
💡 Simply: Sometimes, you want to keep things the way they are. Conserving can also mean maintaining something. Think of preserving a tradition. You're conserving it to keep it alive.
👶 For kids: To keep things the same, like keeping your house clean.
More Examples
The museum conserves important artworks from damage.
We need to conserve the peace in our neighborhood.
How It's Used
"The Prime Minister stated his plans to conserve the current economic policies."
"The pickling process is used to conserve food."
Idioms & expressions
conserve energy
To reduce the use of energy.
"We can conserve energy by using energy-efficient appliances."
From Latin *conservare* ('to keep safe, preserve'), from *con-* ('together') + *servare* ('to keep, save').
The word 'conserve' has been used since the 14th century, initially referring to the preservation of food and later extending to the protection of other resources.
Memory tip
Think of a *serving* of something you want to keep *together* to conserve it.