Conserve: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when talking about using resources carefully to prevent waste. Often related to natural resources.

• We need to conserve water during the drought.
• Conserving energy helps reduce emissions.

Used when referring to maintaining the original state of something over a long period of time. It can relate to nature, culture, or history.

• They work to preserve historical buildings.
• The park is preserved for future generations.

Commonly used in everyday situations where the goal is to rescue or keep something from being lost or wasted. Can be used for time, money, or lives.

• She managed to save a lot of money during the sale.
• The firefighter saved the child from the burning building.

Used when the focus is on keeping something safe from harm or damage. Can refer to people, objects, or environments.

• The new laws aim to protect endangered species.
• Wearing a seatbelt helps protect you in a car accident.

Often used in formal contexts where there is a need to ensure safety or integrity. It can relate to policies, data, or overall well-being.

• Measures were put in place to safeguard personal information.
• It is important to safeguard public health.

Used when referring to the act of preserving food, often through canning or other methods, to keep it safe for a long time.

• We need to conserve excess vegetables from our garden by making pickles and preserves.
• It's important to conserve these fruits by turning them into jams before they spoil.

Often similar to jams, preserves includes larger pieces of fruit and less sugar. It can also refer broadly to any food kept in a similar manner.

• Grandma's homemade preserves always taste the best.
• We used the apricots from our tree to make preserves for the winter.

Refers to food that has been processed and sealed in cans to extend its shelf life.

• Stocking up on canned food can be very useful during emergencies.
• She opened a can of beans to make a quick and easy dinner.

Used for sweet spreads made from fruit and sugar, usually cooked and often preserved.

• Strawberry and blueberry jams are my favorite spreads for toast.
• Making jams is a great way to use up ripe fruit.

Refers to vegetables (often cucumbers) that have been preserved in a solution of brine or vinegar.

• She loves having pickles with her sandwich for an extra crunch.
• The farmer's market sells homemade dill pickles.