Thesaurus

reserve

Q: How is the word 'reserve' distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of reserve are detain , keep , retain , and withhold . While all these words mean "to hold in one's possession or under one's control," reserve suggests a keeping in store for future use. // reserve some of your energy for the last mile

Q: Where would 'detain' be a reasonable alternative to 'reserve'?

While the synonyms detain and reserve are close in meaning, detain suggests a delay in letting go. // detained them for questioning

Q: When could 'keep' be used to replace 'reserve'?

The meanings of keep and reserve largely overlap; however, keep may suggest a holding securely in one's possession, custody, or control. // keep this while I'm gone

Q: When might 'retain' be a better fit than 'reserve'?

In some situations, the words retain and reserve are roughly equivalent. However, retain implies continued keeping, especially against threatened seizure or forced loss. // managed to retain their dignity even in poverty

Q: When can 'withhold' be used instead of 'reserve'?

The words withhold and reserve are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, withhold implies restraint in letting go or a refusal to let go. // withheld information from the authorities

noun

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Synonyms & Antonyms of reserve

(Entry 1 of 2)

1 the checking of one's true feelings and impulses when dealing with others

the salesclerk showed great reserve in dealing with the unreasonable demands of the angry customer

Synonyms for reserve

Words Related to reserve

Near Antonyms for reserve

unrestrainedness

Antonyms for reserve

2 a collection of things kept available for future use or need

our fuel reserves are low

Synonyms for reserve

Words Related to reserve

3 a person or thing that takes the place of another

when the first brigade fell back in retreat, the commander sent out the reserves to try to hold the line of battle

Synonyms for reserve

Words Related to reserve

4 an interchangeable part or piece of equipment that is kept on hand for replacement of an original

don't throw that extra bike chain away, as I want to keep it as a reserve in case the current one breaks

Synonyms for reserve

extra,
spare

Words Related to reserve

backup,
substitute

stock

Near Antonyms for reserve

reserve

verb

Synonyms & Antonyms of reserve (Entry 2 of 2)

1 to arrange to have something (as a hotel room) held for one's future use

we made sure to reserve a kennel for our dog several months before the start of the family vacation

Synonyms for reserve

bespeak,
book

Words Related to reserve

earmark

2 to continue to have in one's possession or power

I'm reserving the right to work by myself if you don't do your share of the project

Synonyms for reserve

Words Related to reserve

bear,
harbor

Phrases Synonymous with reserve

Near Antonyms for reserve

discard,
dump

lose

Antonyms for reserve

3 to keep or intend for a special purpose

we must reserve this cup for ceremonial use only

Synonyms for reserve

Words Related to reserve

Phrases Synonymous with reserve

Near Antonyms for reserve

ignore,
neglect

misapply,
misuse

Frequently Asked Questions About reserve

How is the word reserve distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of reserve are detain, keep, retain, and withhold. While all these words mean "to hold in one's possession or under one's control," reserve suggests a keeping in store for future use.

reserve some of your energy for the last mile

Where would detain be a reasonable alternative to reserve?

While the synonyms detain and reserve are close in meaning, detain suggests a delay in letting go.

detained them for questioning

When could keep be used to replace reserve?

The meanings of keep and reserve largely overlap; however, keep may suggest a holding securely in one's possession, custody, or control.

keep this while I'm gone

When might retain be a better fit than reserve?

In some situations, the words retain and reserve are roughly equivalent. However, retain implies continued keeping, especially against threatened seizure or forced loss.

managed to retain their dignity even in poverty

When can withhold be used instead of reserve?

The words withhold and reserve are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, withhold implies restraint in letting go or a refusal to let go.

withheld information from the authorities