mantener

Word: Mantener

Language: Spanish

Meaning:

The verb "mantener" primarily means "to maintain", "to keep", or "to support". It refers to the action of sustaining something in a particular state or condition, preserving it, or providing the necessary means for someone or something to continue or endure.

Explanation and Usage:

1. To maintain / to keep:

   • Keeping something in a certain condition or state.
   • Example: Mantener la paz — "To maintain peace."

2. To support (financially or physically):

   • Providing for someone’s needs, such as money or care.
   • Example: Ella mantiene a su familia — "She supports her family."

3. To hold an opinion or position:

   • Expressing the act of continuing to hold a particular belief or stance.
   • Example: Mantener una opinión — "To maintain an opinion."

Parts of the word:

• The word "mantener" comes from the Latin "maintinere," which is formed by:
  • manu (hand)
  • tenere (to hold)

Thus, literally meaning "to hold in the hand."

Synonyms:

• Sostener (to sustain, to hold)
• Conservar (to conserve, to preserve)
• Preservar (to preserve)
• Sujetar (to hold, to secure)
• Apoyar (to support)
• Proveer (to provide)

Antonyms:

• Abandonar (to abandon)
• Descuidar (to neglect)
• Dejar (to leave, to stop)
• Romper (to break)

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Summary:
"Maintener" is a versatile verb used primarily to describe actions involving maintenance, sustenance, or support. It relates to keeping things stable, supporting people or principles, and preserving conditions over time.