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New2grammar Posted 18 years ago
Grammar

preserve

Our natural resources are increasingly depleting. We need to [preserve/conserve] or the next generation will pay the price.

What's the difference between the two here?
Thanks.
  

Top answer

"Preserve" is transitive only, and needs an object here. Technically, this term would not allow for any loss (or consumption) of resourses, while "conserve" means to use wisely and plan for the future. In other usages, "game preserve" is (I believe) intended to provide game for the sport (consumption) of hunters.

— Avangi

  • "Preserve" is transitive only, and needs an object here.
  • Technically, this term would not allow for any loss (or consumption) of resourses, while "conserve" means to use wisely and plan for the future.
  • In other usages, "game preserve" is (I believe) intended to provide game for the sport (consumption) of hunters.
  • - A.
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5 Answers
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"Preserve" is transitive only, and needs an object here. Technically, this term would not allow for any loss (or consumption) of resourses, while "conserve" means to use wisely and plan for the future.

In other usages, "game preserve" is (I believe) intended to provide game for the sport (consumption) of hunters.

- A.
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Avangithis term would not allow for any loss
Avangimeans to use wisely
The above seem to be related. Does the difference lie in "the future", meaning conserve has a sense of future which preserve doesn't?
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That doesn't quite work. We (they) preserve a mummy with the intention that it should last for eternity. We preserve a jar of jam so it will remain in it's original condition until we're ready to consume it. (Think of "preservatives.") Museums are in the business of restoring and preserving, not conserving. A preserve and a conservancy might mean the same thing, but in general, to preserve i
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I see. Just to make sure I really get it, the original requires conserve, not preserve, right? Thanks.
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