remainder - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
remainder Word Meanings
- what is left after a part is removed or taken away
- the amount remaining after subtraction
- something that is left over from a process or situation
remainder Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
remainder Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/rɪˈmeɪndə/
US
/rɪˈmeɪndɚ/
remainder Word Etymology
remainder = re- (again) + main (to hold) + -der (agent), from Latin remanere (to remain). Imagine finding leftover food in the fridge after a meal, signifying what remains after enjoying the main course.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I push a line of cards along the table, then pull out a few. I shift the rest around, watching what is left take shape. The effort tightens my hand and slows my breath as the remainder settles into place. Later, in a real task, I keep track of the remainder to decide the next step.
Real Context
Remainder is the noun for what is left after one part is removed or after subtraction. In everyday math we talk about the remainder after dividing two numbers, for example 17 divided by 5 leaves a remainder of 2. The term also covers leftovers from a process or event, such as the remainder of a meal, a project, or a budget after spending. Learners often confuse remainder with difference or result, so it helps to visualize it as the leftovers that stay behind after the main portion is dealt with. In phrases like the remainder of something, it refers to the rest.
Usage Reminders
- Think of remainder as leftovers after taking away the main part
- Practice with division problems to see the remainder
- Don’t treat remainder as the final answer of the operation
- Use phrases like remainder of and remainder after to talk about leftovers
- Compare remainder with subtraction results to avoid confusion
- Pay attention to context, as remainder can also mean leftovers in real life
Common Misconceptions
- Remainder is the same as the final answer of division.
- Remainder equals the difference between numbers.
- Remainder only appears in division, not subtraction.
- Remainder is always a large amount.
- Remainder can replace the main part of a sentence without context.
Thinking Differences
English speakers tend to frame remainder as a concrete leftovers concept from subtraction or division, so learners should visualize it as what remains after the main part is dealt with and not as the final result.
Learning Tips
- Think of remainder as leftovers after taking away the main part
- Practice with division problems to see the remainder
- Don’t treat remainder as the final answer of the operation
- Use phrases like remainder of and remainder after to talk about leftovers
- Compare remainder with subtraction results to avoid confusion
- Pay attention to context, as remainder can also mean leftovers in real life
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'remainder'?
A.Start
B.Middle
C.End
D.Leftover
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'remainder' used correctly?
A.The teacher gave the remainder of the students an extra assignment.
B.He started with the remainder of the book.
C.They will begin with the remainder of the race.
D.She ate the remainder of the cake yesterday.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'remainder'?
A.Total
B.Whole
C.Sum
D.Residue
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'remainder'?
A.Entirety
B.Completion
C.Totality
D.Consumption
Step 5: Mastery
How would you use the word 'remainder' in a real-life context?
A.Calculating change at a store.
B.Splitting a pizza with friends.
C.Dividing a book into chapters.
D.Determining the time left before an event.
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