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Word

conserve

verb C1
/ˈkɒnsɜː(ɹ)v/

Meanings

verb

to use something carefully so it is not wasted

conserve: to use something carefully so it is not wasted
verb

to protect the natural environment, wildlife, or historical objects from damage or loss

conserve: to protect the natural environment, wildlife, or historical objects from damage or loss

Definition

To conserve means to protect something from being wasted or destroyed by using it carefully.

To conserve is to use resources carefully so they last longer and are not wasted. It can also mean to protect nature, energy, or materials from damage or loss. People conserve things by reducing unnecessary use, reusing what they can, and choosing efficient options.

Examples

  • I try to conserve water by taking shorter showers when the weather is dry.
  • You can conserve battery life by lowering the screen brightness during long flights.
  • She chose to conserve her energy for the final stretch of the hike.
  • They work with local communities to conserve wetlands that support migrating birds.

Common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse conserve with preserve; conserve focuses on careful use or protection from waste, while preserve often emphasizes keeping something unchanged.