Words / B1

MAYNT-uh-n-uh-ns/ˈmeɪntənəns/

Maintenance is the work of keeping something in good repair (often uncountable). Maintain is the verb (already in the dictionary). Repair is for a break that has already happened. Housing: lift maintenance closed two floors.

Meaning

The work of keeping something in good condition (often uncountable).

Examples

• “Lift maintenance closed two floors of the tower block.”
• “Under-floor heating needs annual maintenance, not only a call-out when it fails.”

Good to know

Often uncountable. Verb: maintain. Contrast: a repair (after a break). Housing / NHS estates. Not “a maintenance” for one job — a maintenance visit.

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