Reservations: meaning, definitions and examples

This word fits when you need to save a table at a restaurant, seats at a theater, or accommodations at a hotel. It's commonly used in travel and dining contexts.

• I made reservations for dinner at the Italian restaurant.
• We have reservations at the hotel for two nights.

This word is often used interchangeably with 'reservations' but can also refer to buying tickets for events, flights, or tours. It’s commonly used in entertainment and travel industries.

• I completed the booking for our flight to Paris.
• She handled the booking for the concert tickets online.

This term is used mainly for scheduled meetings, often with professionals such as doctors, lawyers, or consultants. It implies a more formal or official meeting.

• I have an appointment with the dentist at 3 PM.
• She scheduled an appointment with her financial advisor.

Use 'arrangement' when talking about plans or preparations for a specific purpose. It generally involves some level of organization and planning.

• They made arrangements for the wedding.
• We need to finalize the arrangements for the conference.

Used when someone has concerns or holds back approval about a particular decision or action, often in a formal or professional setting.

• I have some reservations about hiring him for the project.
• Despite my reservations, we decided to move forward with the plan.

Used when someone feels uncertain or lacks belief in the truth or effectiveness of something, typically involving more emotional or personal matters.

• She had serious doubts about the success of the marriage.
• I have my doubts that this method will solve the problem.

Used when someone pauses or shows reluctance before taking action or making a decision, usually in momentary situations.

• There was a moment of hesitation before he answered the question.
• Without hesitation, she jumped into the water to save the child.

Used to describe a general state of being unclear or unsure about outcomes, results, or the future; often used in broader, more abstract contexts.

• The economic crisis has caused a great deal of uncertainty among small business owners.
• There is uncertainty about how the new policy will impact the community.

Use this word when someone has doubts or concerns about something. It can be used in both formal and informal situations.

• She has reservations about the new plan
• Despite his reservations, he decided to join the team

This word indicates holding something back, often intentionally. It can have a negative connotation, as it suggests not sharing important information or resources.

• She was accused of withholding evidence
• He felt like they were withholding their true feelings

Retention refers to the act of keeping or holding onto something. It is commonly used in business or educational contexts.

• The company focuses on employee retention
• Effective study habits improve knowledge retention

This word is appropriate when someone is unsure and pauses before making a decision or taking action. It implies a moment of doubt or indecision.

• After a moment of hesitation, she agreed to the proposal
• His hesitation was obvious when he answered the question

Used when you want to book something in advance, such as a table at a restaurant, a hotel room, or tickets for an event.

• He made reservations for dinner at the new restaurant.
• I need to call and cancel our hotel reservations.

Used when talking about distributing resources, funds, or responsibilities to different areas or people.

• The budget allocation for education has increased this year.
• The project manager discussed the allocation of tasks among the team.

Used when you are keeping something, like money or time, for a specific purpose in the future.

• You should set aside some money for emergencies.
• We have set aside time for questions at the end of the meeting.

Used when something or someone is officially chosen or marked for a particular role or purpose.

• The area has been designated as a national park.
• He was designated as the team leader.

Also refers to doubts or uncertainties someone might have about something. This usage often carries a more negative or cautious tone.

• She expressed reservations about the new policy
• Despite his reservations, he agreed to the plan

Can refer to saving something for future use, such as setting aside resources or funds. Also describes areas of land set aside for specific purposes, such as wildlife protection. Additionally, can mean a backup or substitute, as in sports or military contexts.

• We need to reserve some funds for emergencies
• The wildlife reserve is home to many endangered species
• He is on the reserve team

Often means to maintain something in its original state or to protect it from harm or decay, such as historical sites or natural resources. Can also refer to making certain foods last longer by treating them for storage.

• Efforts to preserve ancient manuscripts are ongoing
• They preserve fruit by turning it into jam