Maintenance: meaning, definitions and examples
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maintenance
[ˈmeɪnt(ə)nəns ]
Definitions
routine
The process of preserving or maintaining something in good condition, especially a building or equipment.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| maintenance |
Use 'maintenance' in general contexts where keeping something functioning properly is intended. This is often used in technical or mechanical fields.
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| upkeep |
Use 'upkeep' when referring to the ongoing process of maintaining or preserving the condition of something, usually implying time and money.
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| repair |
Use 'repair' when dealing with fixing something that is broken or damaged.
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| care |
Use 'care' when referring to taking responsibility for someone or something, often implying a sense of duty or affection.
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Examples of usage
- Regular maintenance of the car is essential to ensure its longevity.
- The maintenance of the software includes regular updates and bug fixes.
legal
The act of providing support or financial assistance to a spouse or child, especially after a separation or divorce.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| maintenance |
Refers to the actions required to keep something in proper working condition, such as machinery, buildings, or systems.
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| alimony |
Typically used in the context of divorce, referring to financial support that one spouse is required to provide to the other after separation.
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| support |
Broadly refers to providing assistance, whether emotional, financial, physical, or moral.
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| allowance |
Refers to a set amount of money given regularly, often to children by parents, or as a budget allocation for specific expenses.
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Examples of usage
- He has to pay maintenance to his ex-wife as part of the divorce settlement.
- The court ordered him to provide child maintenance for his daughter.
aviation
The process of ensuring that an aircraft is safe and in proper working order before flight.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| maintenance |
Used when referring to the regular upkeep and repair activities to keep equipment, systems, or properties in good working condition.
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| inspection |
Used in more formal contexts where a detailed examination or review is conducted to ensure compliance with standards or to evaluate conditions.
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| service |
Commonly used when referring to professional work performed to maintain or repair equipment or to assist customers. It often implies a more comprehensive task than 'check'.
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| check |
Used when briefly examining or verifying the condition, status, or correctness of something.
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Examples of usage
- The pilot conducted a thorough maintenance check before taking off.
- The maintenance crew is responsible for the regular inspection and repair of the aircraft.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- Derived from the Latin word 'manutenere', meaning 'to hold in the hand' or 'to support.'
- The word has been used in English since the 14th century, initially referring to the act of supporting or sustaining.
Science
- Regular maintenance in machines can significantly increase their lifespan and efficiency.
- In biology, maintenance can refer to processes that keep cells and organisms functioning properly, including repair and regeneration.
Psychology
- Keeping a clean environment can improve mental well-being and reduce stress.
- Cognitive maintenance strategies, like reviewing notes, help enhance memory retention.
Pop Culture
- In films, characters often face challenges due to the lack of maintenance, leading to humorous or dramatic situations.
- Reality shows often feature home improvement, showcasing the importance of maintenance in keeping a house beautiful.
Literature
- In literature, maintenance of relationships is a common theme, emphasizing the effort needed to sustain connections.
- Writers often use metaphors of maintenance, likening emotional health to the upkeep of a garden or a home.
Translations
Translations of the word "maintenance" in other languages:
🇵🇹 manutenção
🇮🇳 रखरखाव
🇩🇪 Wartung
🇮🇩 pemeliharaan
🇺🇦 технічне обслуговування
🇵🇱 utrzymanie
🇯🇵 メンテナンス
🇫🇷 entretien
🇪🇸 mantenimiento
🇹🇷 bakım
🇰🇷 유지
🇸🇦 صيانة
🇨🇿 údržba
🇸🇰 údržba
🇨🇳 维护
🇸🇮 vzdrževanje
🇮🇸 viðhald
🇰🇿 техникалық қызмет көрсету
🇬🇪 მოვლა
🇦🇿 baxım
🇲🇽 mantenimiento