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B1 noun #34 mais comum 16 min de leitura

remains

Top 34

At the A1 level, you can think of 'remains' as a word for 'what is left.' Imagine you eat a pizza. You eat most of it, but there are two small pieces left in the box. Those pieces are the remains of the pizza. It is a plural word, so we always use 'are' with it. For example, 'The remains are on the table.' You might also hear this word in stories about old buildings. If a house is very old and falling down, the parts that are still standing are the remains. It is a simple way to talk about things that stay after other parts are gone. Just remember: it's not one thing, it's the pieces that are left. You don't need to use it often, but it's good to know when you see it in a book or hear it in a simple news story. Think of it like 'extra pieces' or 'leftover parts.'

For A2 learners, 'remains' is a useful noun to describe the parts of something that stay behind after the rest is used or destroyed. You will often see it used with 'of.' For example, 'the remains of the lunch' or 'the remains of the fire.' It is more formal than the word 'leftovers.' While you might say 'I'm eating leftovers' at home, a book might say 'The remains of the meal were cleared away.' You should also know that 'remains' can mean a dead body, but this is a very serious and formal use. You might hear it on the news: 'They found the remains of an animal.' The most important thing at this level is to remember the grammar: 'remains' is always plural. You say 'The remains were found,' not 'The remains was found.' It helps you describe things more accurately than just saying 'the stuff that is left.'

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'remains' in several different contexts. First, in archaeology and history, it refers to the ruins of buildings or ancient objects. 'The Roman remains in this city are famous.' Second, it is the standard formal term for a dead body, often used in news reports as 'human remains.' This is more respectful than saying 'a dead body.' Third, it can be used for the last parts of something, like 'the remains of the day' (the evening) or 'the remains of a cake.' You should notice that 'remains' is a plural noun and is different from the verb 'to remain.' For example, 'He remains (verb) happy' vs 'The remains (noun) of the building are (plural verb) old.' Using 'remains' correctly shows you can handle more formal and specific vocabulary, moving beyond basic words like 'leftovers' or 'parts.'

At the B2 level, you can use 'remains' with more nuance and in more complex sentence structures. You should be familiar with common collocations like 'mortal remains,' 'fossilized remains,' and 'charred remains.' You can also use the word metaphorically to describe abstract things that have been mostly lost. For instance, 'the remains of his pride' or 'the remains of a failed relationship.' This adds a more literary or sophisticated tone to your writing. You should also be aware of the difference between 'remains,' 'remnants,' and 'remainder.' 'Remnants' often refers to small pieces of material like cloth, while 'remainder' is used for the rest of a group or a period of time. 'Remains' is specifically for physical fragments or biological bodies. Understanding these subtle differences allows you to choose the most precise word for your context, which is a key skill at the B2 level.

For C1 learners, 'remains' is a word that can be used to create specific atmospheric or technical effects. In academic writing, you might use it to discuss 'archaeological remains' or 'biological remains' with precision, perhaps discussing the 'stratigraphic context of the remains.' In literature, you might use it to evoke a sense of 'vanitas' or the passage of time, as in 'the skeletal remains of a forgotten era.' You should be able to use it effortlessly in the plural, ensuring perfect subject-verb agreement even in long, complex sentences. You might also explore the word's role in legal or forensic discourse, where 'the disposition of remains' is a standard phrase. At this level, you should also recognize the word's etymological roots in the Latin 'remanere,' and how this history informs its current meaning of 'that which stays behind.' Your use of 'remains' should feel natural, whether you are writing a formal report or a piece of creative fiction.

At the C2 level, your mastery of 'remains' should include an appreciation for its subtle connotations and its place within the broader landscape of English synonyms. You can use it to distinguish between 'vestiges' (the last traces of something disappearing), 'relics' (objects of historical or religious interest), and 'remains' (the physical fragments left over). You might use 'remains' in highly formal or poetic contexts, such as 'the mortal remains of a sovereign' or 'the remains of a shattered ideology.' You should be able to manipulate the word within complex rhetorical structures, perhaps using it as a pivot to discuss the relationship between the past and the present. Your understanding of the word should extend to its most technical applications in forensics, archaeology, and law, as well as its most evocative uses in the canon of English literature. At this level, 'remains' is not just a word for 'what is left,' but a precise tool for describing the enduring physical and metaphorical fragments of our world.

Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas

remains em 30 segundos

Refers to the parts left over after something is used, eaten, or destroyed.
Commonly used in archaeology for ruins and in forensics for dead bodies.
Always functions as a plural noun, requiring plural verbs like 'are' or 'were'.
A formal and respectful alternative to words like 'leftovers' or 'corpse'.

The noun remains is a versatile and essential term in the English language, primarily used to describe what is left over after a larger portion has been consumed, destroyed, or removed. At its core, the word signifies a state of persistence—those fragments or pieces that survive through time or through a specific event. It is important to recognize that 'remains' is almost always used in the plural form when functioning as a noun. Whether you are discussing the leftovers of a Sunday roast, the crumbling walls of a medieval fortress, or the biological evidence found at an archaeological site, the word carries a weight of history and consequence. It bridges the gap between the present and a past state of wholeness.

Archaeological Context: In the field of history and archaeology, 'remains' refers to the physical evidence of past civilizations. This includes buildings, tools, and pottery. For example, 'The Roman remains in Bath are exceptionally well-preserved,' suggests that the structures left behind provide a window into the life of the past.

Archaeologists discovered the remains of an ancient settlement buried beneath the sand dunes.

Beyond the physical ruins of buildings, 'remains' is frequently used in a more somber, biological sense. It is the standard, respectful term used by forensic scientists, police, and historians to refer to a dead body or the skeleton of a person or animal. This usage is particularly common in news reports and scientific documentation. When a person passes away, their physical body is often referred to as their 'mortal remains.' This phrasing adds a layer of dignity and formality to the subject, moving away from more clinical or blunt terms. It acknowledges that what is left is a remnant of a once-living being.

Culinary and Domestic Use: In a more mundane, everyday setting, 'remains' can describe the food left on a plate or the scraps left in a bowl. While 'leftovers' is more common in casual speech, 'remains' might be used to emphasize the state of the food—perhaps it has been picked over or is no longer appetizing. 'The remains of the feast were scattered across the long wooden table.'

The word also finds its way into abstract discussions. One might speak of the 'remains of a hope' or the 'remains of a reputation.' In these instances, the word suggests that most of the hope or reputation has been destroyed, but a small, perhaps fragile, portion still exists. This metaphorical use highlights the word's ability to convey loss and survival simultaneously. It is a word that looks backward, acknowledging what was lost, while pointing to what still exists in the present. It is this duality—the presence of the past in the now—that makes 'remains' such a powerful tool for writers and speakers alike.

After the fire, only the charred remains of the library's rare manuscript collection could be found.

Formal Documentation: In legal and formal contexts, 'remains' is the preferred term for discussing human bodies in wills, funeral arrangements, and forensic reports. It maintains a level of professional distance while remaining respectful of the deceased.

Finally, the word 'remains' is often paired with adjectives that specify the nature of what is left. We hear about 'human remains,' 'fossilized remains,' 'charred remains,' and 'scattered remains.' Each of these collocations provides immediate context, allowing the listener to understand whether the subject is a matter of science, tragedy, or simple household cleanup. The word's flexibility across these diverse domains—from the kitchen to the crime scene to the ancient ruin—demonstrates its fundamental importance in describing the physical world and its inevitable decay and transformation over time.

The remains of the day were spent in quiet reflection by the lake.

They found the remains of a campfire, suggesting someone had been there recently.

Using the noun remains correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical behavior and its typical semantic environments. The most crucial rule to remember is that as a noun, 'remains' is plural. This means it must be paired with plural verbs and plural pronouns. For instance, you would say, 'The remains were analyzed,' not 'The remains was analyzed.' This plural nature is inherent to the word when it refers to leftovers or a corpse. If you find yourself using it in the singular, you are likely confusing it with the third-person singular form of the verb 'to remain' (e.g., 'He remains the champion'), which is a completely different grammatical category.

Subject-Verb Agreement: Always treat 'remains' as a plural subject. Example: 'The remains of the ancient temple are visible from the road.' Even though 'temple' is singular, the subject 'remains' dictates the plural verb 'are.'

The skeletal remains were carefully placed in a climate-controlled box for transport.

In descriptive writing, 'remains' often serves as the head of a noun phrase followed by an 'of' prepositional phrase. This structure specifies exactly what the leftovers are from. Common examples include 'remains of a meal,' 'remains of a building,' or 'remains of a civilization.' When using this structure, the focus is on the fragment rather than the whole. It creates a sense of partiality and often a mood of melancholy or discovery. Writers use this to evoke the passage of time or the aftermath of an event. For example, 'The remains of the explosion were scattered across three city blocks' emphasizes the scale of the destruction.

Descriptive Adjectives: Pair 'remains' with evocative adjectives to sharpen your meaning. 'Smoldering remains' suggests a recent fire, while 'ancient remains' suggests a historical context. 'Human remains' is a specific technical term used in law and science.

When discussing human or animal bodies, 'remains' is a formal and respectful choice. In a sentence like 'The family requested that the remains be returned to their home country,' the word functions as a collective noun for the physical body. It is important to note that 'remains' can refer to a whole body or just parts of it, such as bones. This ambiguity is often useful in forensic or archaeological contexts where the completeness of the body may not yet be known. The word maintains a level of clinical objectivity while avoiding the potentially graphic nature of words like 'corpse' or 'carcass.'

They searched the forest for any remains that might lead them to the missing hiker.

Metaphorical Usage: Use 'remains' to describe abstract concepts that have been diminished. 'The remains of his dignity' or 'the remains of the afternoon.' This usage is often found in literature to create a poetic or reflective tone.

In summary, to use 'remains' effectively, ensure your verbs are plural, your adjectives are descriptive, and your context is appropriate—whether it be archaeological, forensic, or everyday leftovers. It is a word that carries significant descriptive power, allowing you to speak about what is left behind with precision and, when necessary, with great respect. By mastering its plural nature and its common collocations, you can use 'remains' to add depth and clarity to your English communication, whether in a formal report or a creative story.

The remains of the old bridge still span the river, though they are no longer safe to cross.

The dog sniffed at the remains of the picnic left on the grass.

The word remains is a staple in various professional and public spheres, making it a word you are likely to encounter frequently in media, science, and formal discourse. One of the most common places to hear 'remains' is in news broadcasts, particularly during reports on crime, accidents, or natural disasters. News anchors often use the phrase 'human remains' to report the discovery of a body. This choice of wording is deliberate; it is more formal and less sensationalist than other terms, providing a necessary level of professional detachment while conveying the seriousness of the situation. You might hear, 'Police have confirmed that the human remains found in the park belong to the missing teenager.'

Scientific Documentaries: In documentaries about history, archaeology, or paleontology, 'remains' is used constantly. Narrators speak of 'fossilized remains of dinosaurs' or 'the remains of a Roman villa.' In these contexts, the word emphasizes the scientific value of what has survived from the past.

'The remains of this ancient city offer a glimpse into a world long forgotten,' the narrator explained.

In the world of literature and high-end journalism, 'remains' is often used in a more evocative or metaphorical sense. A famous example is the title of the novel The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro. Here, 'remains' refers to the final hours of a day, but also metaphorically to the final years of a person's life and the lingering memories of their past. This usage is common in reflective essays or long-form articles where the author is contemplating what is left after a major change or at the end of an era. You might read about the 'remains of a political party' or the 'remains of a once-great industry.'

Legal and Funeral Services: If you are involved in legal matters concerning an estate or are attending a funeral service, you will hear 'remains' used to refer to the deceased. Terms like 'cremated remains' (often called ashes) or 'mortal remains' are standard in these sensitive environments.

In everyday conversation, while 'leftovers' is the go-to word for food, 'remains' might be used for emphasis or humor. Someone might say, 'Look at the remains of that cake!' to point out how quickly it was eaten. It can also be heard in the context of cleaning or construction. A contractor might talk about 'removing the remains of the old drywall.' In these cases, the word is used to describe debris or waste that needs to be cleared away. It implies that the main part of the work (the demolition) is done, and only the fragments are left.

The janitor swept up the remains of the broken vase from the hallway floor.

Environmental and Nature Reports: You might hear 'remains' in reports about the environment, such as 'the remains of a forest after a wildfire' or 'the remains of a glacier.' This highlights the loss of natural beauty or resources.

Whether it is the somber tone of a news report, the academic precision of a history book, or the poetic reflection of a novel, 'remains' is a word that signals the presence of the past. It tells us that something significant has happened, and what we see now is the evidence of that event. By paying attention to these different contexts, you can better understand the nuances of the word and how it shapes the meaning of the sentences in which it appears. It is a word that invites us to look closer at what has survived and to consider the story behind the fragments.

The remains of the sunken ship were finally located using advanced sonar technology.

After the party, the remains of several balloons were stuck to the ceiling.

One of the most frequent errors learners make with the word remains is confusing its noun form with its verb form. While they look identical in writing (in the third-person singular), they function very differently in a sentence. As a verb, 'remains' means to stay in the same place or condition (e.g., 'The problem remains unsolved'). As a noun, it refers to the parts left over. A common mistake is to treat the noun as singular because the verb form 'remains' ends in 's' like a singular verb. However, the noun 'remains' is inherently plural. You must avoid saying 'The remains is...' and instead always use 'The remains are...'

The 'Is vs. Are' Trap: Incorrect: 'The remains of the meal is on the table.' Correct: 'The remains of the meal are on the table.' Even if you are thinking of the leftovers as one group, the word itself requires a plural verb.

Correct: The remains of the building were demolished yesterday.

Another common mistake involves the use of articles. Because 'remains' is a plural noun, you cannot use the indefinite article 'a' or 'an' with it. You would never say 'a remains.' Instead, you should use 'the remains,' 'some remains,' or no article at all if you are speaking generally. For example, 'Archaeologists found remains of an ancient wall' is correct, whereas 'Archaeologists found a remains of an ancient wall' is grammatically incorrect. This mistake often stems from learners trying to treat 'remains' like the word 'remnant,' which is singular and can take the article 'a'.

Confusion with 'Remainder': While 'remains' and 'remainder' both refer to what is left, they are used in different contexts. 'Remainder' is often used in mathematics or to refer to the rest of a group of people or a period of time (e.g., 'the remainder of the class'). 'Remains' is used for physical fragments or a corpse.

Learners also sometimes struggle with the register of the word. 'Remains' is a relatively formal word. Using it in a very casual setting to refer to something simple like a few crumbs might sound overly dramatic or even sarcastic. For example, saying 'I will now dispose of the remains of my toast' in a casual breakfast conversation might make people laugh because it sounds like a line from a forensic drama. In casual speech, 'leftovers,' 'scraps,' or 'bits' are often more appropriate. Understanding the level of formality—the 'register'—is key to using the word naturally.

Incorrect: We found a remains of a bird. Correct: We found the remains of a bird.

Misusing 'Remains' for Living Things: Remember that 'remains' as a noun implies that the main part is gone or dead. Do not use it to describe a person who is still alive but perhaps tired or injured. Use 'remnant' or 'shadow of their former self' for metaphorical descriptions of living people.

Finally, be careful with spelling. Because the verb 'remain' is so common, it is easy to forget the 's' when you intend to use the noun. 'The remain of the dinner' is incorrect; it must be 'The remains of the dinner.' Conversely, don't add an extra 's' to the verb form when it's not needed (e.g., 'They remains here' is incorrect; it should be 'They remain here'). Keeping the noun (always plural 'remains') and the verb (conjugates as 'remain/remains') separate in your mind will help you avoid these common pitfalls and communicate more effectively.

Correct: The remains were buried in the local cemetery.

Incorrect: The remains of the cake was delicious. Correct: The remains of the cake were delicious.

While remains is a powerful and specific word, English offers several alternatives depending on the context. Understanding these synonyms will help you choose the most precise word for your situation. For physical structures or historical sites, 'ruins' is a common alternative. However, 'ruins' usually implies a larger scale and a state of significant decay, whereas 'remains' can refer to even the smallest fragment. You might say 'the ruins of a castle' but 'the remains of a broken pot.' 'Remains' is often more clinical or descriptive, while 'ruins' can be more romantic or evocative.

Remains vs. Leftovers: 'Leftovers' is the standard word for food remaining after a meal, especially food that is kept to be eaten later. 'Remains' is more formal and often refers to food that is being thrown away or the scraps that are left on a plate. You eat leftovers; you clear away remains.

We had the leftovers for lunch, but the remains of the turkey carcass were used to make soup.

In forensic or biological contexts, 'corpse,' 'cadaver,' or 'carcass' are alternatives to 'remains.' 'Corpse' is a general word for a dead human body. 'Cadaver' is more technical, often used in medical or scientific study. 'Carcass' is used for animals. 'Remains' is the most respectful and formal of these, often used to avoid the bluntness of the other terms. In a news report, 'human remains' is preferred over 'a corpse' because it is more sensitive to the family of the deceased. 'Remnants' is another similar word, often used for small pieces of cloth, carpet, or abstract things like 'remnants of a tradition.'

Remains vs. Remainder: 'Remainder' is used for the part that is left over after subtraction or when others have gone. 'The remainder of the day' or 'the remainder of the money.' 'Remains' is specifically for physical fragments or biological bodies.

For abstract concepts, 'vestiges' or 'traces' can be used. A 'vestige' is a small part of something that no longer exists, often used in a historical or evolutionary sense (e.g., 'vestiges of an old belief system'). 'Traces' suggests a very small amount that indicates something was once there (e.g., 'traces of poison' or 'traces of a smile'). 'Remains' in an abstract sense (e.g., 'remains of his influence') suggests a slightly larger or more substantial survival than 'traces.' Choosing between these words depends on how much of the original thing you want to suggest is still present.

The ruins of the abbey are a popular tourist attraction, but the remains of the original foundation are only visible to experts.

Summary of Alternatives

Ruins: Large-scale decayed structures.
Leftovers: Food saved for later.
Debris: Scattered fragments from destruction.
Remnants: Small surviving pieces (often cloth or abstract).
Cadaver/Corpse: Specific terms for dead bodies.

By understanding these distinctions, you can use 'remains' when you want to be formal, respectful, or focused on physical fragments of a specific whole. You can switch to 'leftovers' for a casual dinner, 'ruins' for a majestic old building, or 'debris' for the mess after a storm. This variety in your vocabulary will make your English sound more natural and precise, allowing you to convey exactly the right tone and meaning in any situation.

The remnants of the old fabric were used to make a colorful quilt.

The debris from the crashed plane was spread over a wide area.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutro

Informal

Child friendly

Gíria

Curiosidade

While 'remains' is a common word today, its use as a noun for a dead body became more frequent in the 18th century as a polite alternative to 'corpse.'

Guia de pronúncia

UK /rɪˈmeɪnz/

US /rɪˈmeɪnz/

The stress is on the second syllable: ri-MAINS.

Rima com

brains chains drains grains plains stains trains pains

Erros comuns

Pronouncing the 's' as an 's' instead of a 'z'.
Stressing the first syllable (RE-mains).
Shortening the 'ay' sound in the second syllable.
Omitting the 's' entirely when using it as a noun.
Confusing it with the word 'remittance'.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 3/5

Common in news and history books, easy to recognize in context.

Escrita 4/5

Requires careful attention to plural verb agreement.

Expressão oral 3/5

Useful for formal situations, but 'leftovers' is more common for food.

Audição 3/5

Must distinguish from the verb form 'remains' based on context.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

remain (verb) part left body old

Aprenda a seguir

remnant remainder vestige archaeology forensic

Avançado

cadaver relic stratigraphy interment

Gramática essencial

Plural Agreement

The remains ARE (not is) on the table.

No Indefinite Article

I found remains (not a remains) of a bird.

Prepositional Phrases

The remains OF the city were found.

Adjective Placement

The ANCIENT remains were studied.

Noun vs. Verb

He remains (verb) at home. The remains (noun) are at home.

Exemplos por nível

The remains of the pizza are in the box.

Les restes de la pizza sont dans la boîte.

Use 'are' because 'remains' is plural.

We saw the remains of an old house.

Nous avons vu les restes d'une vieille maison.

'Remains' refers to the parts of the house that are still there.

The remains of the cake were on the plate.

Les restes du gâteau étaient sur l'assiette.

Even a small amount is called 'remains' (plural).

They found the remains of a campfire.

Ils ont trouvé les restes d'un feu de camp.

This means the fire is finished.

The remains of the fruit were in the bin.

Les restes de fruits étaient dans la poubelle.

Parts of the fruit that were not eaten.

Are these the remains of your lunch?

Est-ce que ce sont les restes de ton déjeuner ?

A question using the plural 'are'.

The remains of the wall are very low.

Les restes du mur sont très bas.

Only a small part of the wall is left.

I found the remains of a toy in the garden.

J'ai trouvé les restes d'un jouet dans le jardin.

A piece of a broken object.

The remains of the dinner were still on the table.

Les restes du dîner étaient encore sur la table.

'Remains' is more formal than 'leftovers'.

Archaeologists found the remains of an ancient city.

Les archéologues ont trouvé les restes d'une ville antique.

A common use in history and science.

The remains of the plane were found in the mountains.

Les restes de l'avion ont été retrouvés dans les montagnes.

Refers to the wreckage of the plane.

Please clear away the remains of the party.

S'il vous plaît, débarrassez les restes de la fête.

Refers to the mess left after an event.

The remains of the castle are open to the public.

Les restes du château sont ouverts au public.

The surviving parts of the building.

They discovered the remains of a dinosaur.

Ils ont découvert les restes d'un dinosaure.

In this case, 'remains' means the bones.

The remains of the fire were still warm.

Les restes du feu étaient encore chauds.

The ash and wood that are left.

He looked at the remains of his broken phone.

Il a regardé les restes de son téléphone cassé.

The pieces of a destroyed object.

The human remains were taken to the lab for testing.

Les restes humains ont été emmenés au laboratoire pour des tests.

A formal and respectful term for a body.

The remains of the day were spent walking by the sea.

Le reste de la journée a été passé à se promener au bord de la mer.

A more poetic way to say 'the rest of the day'.

Only the charred remains of the documents were left.

Il ne restait que les restes carbonisés des documents.

'Charred' is a common adjective used with 'remains'.

The remains of the bridge are a danger to ships.

Les restes du pont sont un danger pour les navires.

The parts of the bridge that are still in the water.

They are studying the fossilized remains of ancient plants.

Ils étudient les restes fossilisés de plantes anciennes.

'Fossilized remains' is a scientific collocation.

The remains of the feast were given to the poor.

Les restes du festin ont été donnés aux pauvres.

Refers to the food that was not eaten.

The remains of the old factory were finally demolished.

Les restes de l'ancienne usine ont finalement été démolis.

The last standing parts of the factory.

She kept the remains of the letter in a small box.

Elle gardait les restes de la lettre dans une petite boîte.

The fragments of the letter.

The mortal remains of the king were interred in the cathedral.

Les restes mortels du roi ont été inhumés dans la cathédrale.

'Mortal remains' is a very formal and respectful phrase.

The remains of his reputation were destroyed by the scandal.

Les restes de sa réputation ont été détruits par le scandale.

A metaphorical use of 'remains'.

The remains of the hurricane were still felt in the north.

Les restes de l'ouragan se faisaient encore sentir dans le nord.

Refers to the weakening storm as it moves.

Archaeologists are uncovering the remains of a Viking settlement.

Les archéologues mettent au jour les restes d'un établissement viking.

Using 'uncovering' with 'remains'.

The remains of the cake were quickly devoured by the children.

Les restes du gâteau ont été rapidement dévorés par les enfants.

A slightly more formal word used for effect.

The remains of the forest are now a protected national park.

Les restes de la forêt sont désormais un parc national protégé.

The part of the forest that was not cut down.

The remains of the explosion were scattered over a wide area.

Les restes de l'explosion ont été dispersés sur une large zone.

Refers to the fragments caused by the explosion.

He tried to gather the remains of his dignity and left the room.

Il a essayé de rassembler les restes de sa dignité et a quitté la pièce.

A common metaphorical expression.

The stratigraphic analysis of the remains provided a precise timeline.

L'analyse stratigraphique des restes a fourni une chronologie précise.

Academic and technical usage.

The remains of the old regime were slowly dismantled by the new government.

Les restes de l'ancien régime ont été lentement démantelés par le nouveau gouvernement.

Metaphorical use in a political context.

The skeletal remains exhibited signs of severe malnutrition.

Les restes squelettiques présentaient des signes de malnutrition sévère.

Formal scientific description.

The remains of the day's light faded into a deep purple twilight.

Les restes de la lumière du jour se sont fondus dans un crépuscule violet profond.

Poetic and evocative usage.

The remains of the ship were encrusted with coral and sea life.

Les restes du navire étaient incrustés de corail et de vie marine.

Descriptive and detailed imagery.

The remains of the argument still lingered in the air between them.

Les restes de la dispute flottaient encore dans l'air entre eux.

Abstract and metaphorical usage.

The forensic team worked to identify the remains found in the shallow grave.

L'équipe médico-légale a travaillé pour identifier les restes trouvés dans la tombe peu profonde.

Standard term in criminal investigation.

The remains of the once-mighty glacier are now just a small patch of ice.

Les restes du glacier autrefois puissant ne sont plus qu'une petite plaque de glace.

Environmental context.

The remains of the ancient manuscript were too fragile to be handled without gloves.

Les restes du manuscrit ancien étaient trop fragiles pour être manipulés sans gants.

High-level descriptive usage.

The remains of the philosopher's work were collected into a single volume.

Les restes de l'œuvre du philosophe ont été rassemblés en un seul volume.

Refers to the surviving writings.

The remains of the city's defenses were integrated into the modern urban landscape.

Les restes des défenses de la ville ont été intégrés dans le paysage urbain moderne.

Discussing urban planning and history.

The remains of the supernova were visible as a faint nebula in the night sky.

Les restes de la supernova étaient visibles sous la forme d'une faible nébuleuse dans le ciel nocturne.

Scientific/astronomical usage.

The remains of the social hierarchy were still evident in the village's customs.

Les restes de la hiérarchie sociale étaient encore évidents dans les coutumes du village.

Sociological and metaphorical usage.

The remains of the fire were sifted for any clues to the cause of the blaze.

Les restes du feu ont été passés au crible pour trouver des indices sur la cause du sinistre.

Detailed forensic context.

The remains of the conversation haunted him for the rest of the night.

Les restes de la conversation l'ont hanté pendant le reste de la nuit.

Highly metaphorical and psychological.

The remains of the Roman road can still be traced across the countryside.

Les restes de la voie romaine peuvent encore être tracés à travers la campagne.

Geographical and historical description.

Colocações comuns

human remains

ancient remains

mortal remains

charred remains

fossilized remains

skeletal remains

remains of the day

scattered remains

cremated remains

archaeological remains

Frases Comuns

the remains of the meal

the remains of a building

the remains of a fire

the remains of a hope

the remains of a civilization

the remains of a person

the remains of a party

the remains of a storm

the remains of a life

the remains of a dream

Frequentemente confundido com

remains vs remains (verb)

The verb 'remains' is the 3rd person singular of 'remain' (e.g., 'It remains a mystery'). The noun 'remains' is always plural.

remains vs remainder

Use 'remainder' for the rest of a group or time. Use 'remains' for physical fragments or a body.

remains vs remnants

Both mean 'what is left,' but 'remnants' is often used for cloth or small abstract traces, while 'remains' is for larger structures or bodies.

Expressões idiomáticas

"the remains of the day"

The final part of the day, or metaphorically, the final years of a person's life.

They spent the remains of the day watching the sunset.

literary

"mortal remains"

A person's dead body.

His mortal remains were buried in the local churchyard.

formal

"pick over the remains"

To look through what is left of something to find anything useful.

The scavengers picked over the remains of the shipwreck.

neutral

"scattered to the remains"

To be broken into pieces and spread out (less common, often used descriptively).

The old traditions were scattered to the remains of history.

literary

"the remains of a reputation"

What little good opinion people still have of someone after a scandal.

He tried to save the remains of his reputation by apologizing.

neutral

"buried remains"

Something from the past that has been forgotten or hidden.

The scandal brought up the buried remains of his past mistakes.

metaphorical

"the remains of a smile"

A very small or fading smile.

A remains of a smile played on her lips as she remembered the joke.

literary

"living on the remains"

Surviving on very little or on what others have left behind.

The small business was living on the remains of its former glory.

metaphorical

"the remains of a shadow"

Something that is almost completely gone.

He was just the remains of a shadow of the man he used to be.

literary

"dust and remains"

Emphasizing that something is completely destroyed and old.

The ancient library was now nothing but dust and remains.

literary

Fácil de confundir

remains vs remnant

Similar meaning and sound.

'Remnant' is singular and often refers to small pieces of material. 'Remains' is plural and refers to ruins or a body.

She bought a remnant of velvet. They found the remains of the castle.

remains vs remainder

Both refer to what is left over.

'Remainder' is used in math or for the rest of a period of time. 'Remains' is for physical objects or biological matter.

The remainder of the week. The remains of the dinner.

remains vs residue

Both mean what is left behind.

'Residue' is often a chemical or sticky substance left after a process. 'Remains' are identifiable parts of a whole.

A sticky residue on the table. The remains of the meal.

remains vs ruins

Both describe old buildings.

'Ruins' usually refers to large, collapsed structures. 'Remains' can be any size and is more formal/scientific.

The ruins of Rome. The remains of a small hut.

remains vs leftovers

Both refer to uneaten food.

'Leftovers' is casual and implies the food will be eaten later. 'Remains' is formal and often implies the food is waste.

I'll eat the leftovers. The remains of the meal were cleared.

Padrões de frases

The remains of [noun] are [adjective].

The remains of the pizza are cold.

They found the remains of [noun].

They found the remains of an old car.

The [adjective] remains were [verb-ed].

The human remains were identified.

Only the remains of [noun] were left.

Only the remains of the house were left.

[Noun] is rich in [adjective] remains.

The area is rich in archaeological remains.

He clung to the remains of [abstract noun].

He clung to the remains of his pride.

The remains of [noun] provide evidence of [noun].

The remains of the pottery provide evidence of trade.

The remains of [noun] were integrated into [noun].

The remains of the wall were integrated into the new park.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

Verbos

Adjetivos

Relacionado

Como usar

frequency

Common in academic, journalistic, and formal writing; less common in casual speech except for specific contexts.

Erros comuns

The remains of the meal is on the table. → The remains of the meal are on the table.
The noun 'remains' is plural and requires a plural verb ('are').
We found a remains of an old wall. → We found the remains of an old wall.
You cannot use the indefinite article 'a' with the plural noun 'remains.'
The police found a human remain. → The police found human remains.
The noun 'remains' is always used in the plural form when referring to a body.
I'll eat the remains for lunch. → I'll eat the leftovers for lunch.
While 'remains' is grammatically correct, 'leftovers' is the more natural word for food you intend to eat.
The remain of the building was destroyed. → The remains of the building were destroyed.
The noun must be plural ('remains') and the verb must be plural ('were').

Dicas

Always Plural

Always use plural verbs with the noun 'remains.' Think of it like the word 'clothes'—it doesn't have a singular form in this sense.

Formal Tone

Use 'remains' instead of 'leftovers' or 'body' when you want to sound more formal, respectful, or scientific.

Descriptive Adjectives

Make your writing more vivid by adding adjectives like 'charred,' 'ancient,' 'skeletal,' or 'scattered' before 'remains.'

Pronunciation

Remember the voiced 'z' sound at the end of 'remains.' It should sound like 'ri-MAINS' with a buzzing finish.

Check the Context

If you see 'remains' in a news story, it likely means a body. In a history book, it likely means ruins. In a kitchen, it means scraps.

Metaphorical Use

Try using 'remains' metaphorically to describe the end of something, like 'the remains of the summer' or 'the remains of a friendship.'

Professional Term

In medical or legal writing, 'remains' is the most appropriate and professional term for a deceased person.

Broad Meaning

In archaeology, 'remains' isn't just bones; it's anything that survived from the past, like walls or tools.

Remains vs. Remainder

Use 'remainder' for time or numbers (the remainder of the hour) and 'remains' for physical things (the remains of the cake).

Latin Root

Knowing that it comes from the Latin 'remanere' (to stay behind) helps you remember that 'remains' are the things that stay behind.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of 'Remains' as 'REally MAINly gone, but Some is left.' The 's' at the end reminds you it is plural.

Associação visual

Imagine a plate with only a few crumbs left, or the stone foundations of an old house in a field. These are the remains.

Word Web

ruins leftovers corpse bones fragments ash history survive

Desafio

Write three sentences using 'remains' in different ways: once for food, once for a building, and once for a person.

Origem da palavra

The word comes from the Old French 'remaindre,' which was derived from the Latin 'remanere.'

Significado original: The Latin 'remanere' is composed of 're-' (back) and 'manere' (to stay), literally meaning 'to stay back' or 'to stay behind.'

Indo-European (Latin -> French -> English).

Contexto cultural

Always use 'remains' or 'mortal remains' when speaking to someone who has recently lost a loved one, as it is the most polite term.

It is the standard term for a deceased person in formal news reporting and legal documents.

The Remains of the Day (novel by Kazuo Ishiguro) The Remains of the Day (film starring Anthony Hopkins) Human Remains (a common phrase in forensic TV shows like CSI)

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Archaeology

uncover the remains
ancient remains
well-preserved remains
remains of a settlement

Forensics/News

human remains
identify the remains
skeletal remains
discovery of remains

Cooking/Dining

remains of the meal
clear away the remains
remains of the feast
food remains

Disasters/Accidents

charred remains
remains of the wreckage
scattered remains
remains of the building

Literature/Poetry

remains of the day
remains of a hope
remains of a dream
remains of a life

Iniciadores de conversa

"Have you ever visited any famous archaeological remains, like those in Rome or Egypt?"

"What do you usually do with the remains of a big holiday meal?"

"Have you read the book or seen the movie 'The Remains of the Day'?"

"Why do you think the news uses the term 'human remains' instead of 'dead body'?"

"If you found the remains of an old building in your backyard, what would you do?"

Temas para diário

Describe the remains of a place you used to visit as a child that has now changed.

Write about a time you felt like you were clinging to the remains of a hope or a dream.

Imagine you are an archaeologist in the year 3000. What remains of our current civilization would you find?

Reflect on the phrase 'the remains of the day.' What does it mean to you personally?

Write a short story that begins with the discovery of mysterious remains in a forest.

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

As a noun, 'remains' is always plural. You must use plural verbs like 'are' or 'were' with it. For example, 'The remains were found.' Using it as a singular noun is a common mistake.

No, you cannot say 'a remains' because it is a plural noun. You should use 'the remains,' 'some remains,' or just 'remains.' For example, 'They found remains of an ancient wall.'

'Leftovers' is an informal word used for food you save to eat later. 'Remains' is more formal and can refer to food scraps, ruins of buildings, or a dead body. You wouldn't usually call a dead body 'leftovers'!

'Human remains' is a formal and respectful term used by police, news reporters, and scientists to refer to a dead body or skeleton. It is the preferred term in professional contexts.

Yes, 'remains' is also the third-person singular form of the verb 'remain.' For example, 'He remains the leader.' However, the noun 'remains' and the verb 'remains' are used differently in sentences.

'Mortal remains' is a very formal and poetic way to refer to a person's dead body. It is often used in the context of funerals or historical biographies.

In archaeology, 'remains' refers to any physical evidence left by past people, such as the foundations of buildings, pieces of pottery, or ancient tools. Example: 'The archaeological remains were well-preserved.'

Yes, you can use 'remains' to refer to the dead body or bones of an animal. For example, 'The remains of a deer were found in the forest.'

'Cremated remains' is the formal term for the ashes of a person who has been cremated. It is more respectful than just saying 'ashes' in a funeral context.

Yes, it can be used metaphorically for things like 'the remains of a hope' or 'the remains of a reputation,' meaning a small part that still exists after most of it is gone.