Save Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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save

[seɪv ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

data storage

Keep and store up (something, especially money) for future use.

Synonyms

hoard, keep, reserve, store.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
save	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
store	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
keep	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
reserve	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
hoard	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

Examples of usage

I need to save some money for my vacation.
She saves all her important documents on an external hard drive.
We should save a backup copy of this file.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

rescue

Keep safe or rescue (someone or something) from harm or danger.

Synonyms

protect, rescue, salvage, shield.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
save	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.
rescue	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.
protect	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.
salvage	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.
shield	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.

Examples of usage

The lifeguard saved the drowning swimmer.
She saved the kitten from the tree.
He saved his friend from a burning building.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

computing

An instruction to a computer to store information for later use.

Synonyms

preserve, record, store.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
save	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.
store	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.
record	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.
preserve	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.

Examples of usage

Click 'save' to keep your changes.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

In computing, 'save' refers to the action of storing data on a device to prevent loss, such as saving a document to a computer.
The 'Save' icon, often represented as a floppy disk, symbolizes data preservation despite modern technology making disks less common.
Auto-save features in applications help protect users' work by automatically saving progress at intervals.

Finance

Saving money is important for budgeting and preparing for future needs or emergencies, often encouraged from a young age.
Different types of savings accounts exist, such as high-yield accounts, which offer interest on deposits.
The concept of saving for retirement has gained popularity, with various plans available like 401(k)s and IRAs.

Environment

To 'save the planet' refers to efforts in environmental conservation and combatting climate change, emphasizing sustainable practices.
Saving resources, such as water and energy, is crucial in reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainability.
The phrase 'reduce, reuse, recycle' is part of the larger movement to save the Earth by minimizing waste.

Psychology

'Saving' can create a sense of security and control, as it helps individuals prepare for future uncertainties.
The act of saving is often linked to delayed gratification, where individuals prioritize long-term benefits over immediate pleasures.
Research shows that people who actively save tend to experience lower stress levels in their financial situations.

Origin of 'save'

Main points about word origin

The word 'save' comes from the Latin 'salvare,' which means 'to rescue' or 'to keep safe.'
In Middle English, it was used in legal contexts, signifying safeguarding rights or property.
The use of 'save' to mean 'to conserve' entered the English language in the 15th century.

The word 'save' originated from the Old French word 'sauver', which means 'to protect, keep safe'. Over time, the meaning of 'save' has evolved to encompass various contexts, from financial savings to rescuing someone from danger. The concept of saving has always been valued in human society, whether it be saving money for the future or saving lives in emergencies.

See also: autosave, saved, saver, saving, savings, savior, unsaved.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,625, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.

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1622 lies
1623 conference
1624 instruction
1625 save
1626 mainly
1627 drive
1628 pleasure
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