Save: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used when you want to conserve something for future use, often implying a beneficial or practical intent.

• She decided to save her allowance to buy a new bike
• He saved the document before closing the program

Refers to placing items in a specific place for future use, often implying organization and preservation.

• She stored all her winter clothes in the attic
• You can store extra data on this external hard drive

Generally used to maintain possession or retain something, emphasizing ownership or continued use.

• I keep all my important documents in this drawer
• He decided to keep the family heirloom

Used when setting something aside for a specific future purpose or need, often more formal.

• They reserved a table at the restaurant for dinner
• Please reserve your questions for the end of the presentation

Often has a negative connotation, indicating the accumulation of items excessively and secretly, usually out of fear of shortage or want.

• He tends to hoard old magazines in his attic
• Authorities found that she had been hoarding food supplies during the crisis

Used when preventing loss, harm, or danger, often in a general or broad sense.

• He saved the documents before the power went out.
• She saved her friend from making a huge mistake.

Used in scenarios where someone is saved from a dangerous or distressing situation, usually involving a more urgent or immediate action.

• The firefighters rescued the cat from the burning building.
• He was rescued after being stranded at sea for three days.

Used when actively keeping someone or something safe from harm or danger.

• Parents always protect their children.
• This sunscreen will protect your skin from UV rays.

Used when recovering or saving something that is otherwise lost, damaged, or at risk of loss, often referring to objects or situations rather than people.

• They managed to salvage some items from the wreckage.
• We can salvage the project if we act quickly.

Used when preventing someone or something from being hit, affected, or harmed, often implying a physical or metaphorical barrier.

• He shielded his eyes from the bright light.
• She tried to shield her brother from their parents' anger.

Use when you want to keep something from harm, loss, or waste. Often refers to digital data, money, or time.

• I need to save my work before the computer crashes.
• She saved a lot of money for her vacation.

Use when you want to keep something for future use, often in a specific place or format. Typically refers to physical or digital items.

• You can store your luggage in the hotel room.
• Store these files in the archive folder.

Use when you want to make a permanent account of information, especially in written, photographic, or digital form. Often used in contexts like meetings, performances, or observations.

• Please record the meeting minutes for us.
• She recorded her latest song in the studio.

Use when you want to keep something in its original state over time, often relating to artifacts, nature, or food. It conveys a sense of protection or maintenance.

• We need to preserve our cultural heritage.
• These jars are used to preserve fruit for the winter.