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Synonyms

in reserve

Idioms  
  1. Kept back, set aside, or saved. For example, We have a fair amount of cash in reserve, or The coach decided to keep the best player in reserve until the last quarter. [Late 1600s]


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

As of November, a total of 58 B-52Hs are in the military’s active force, with another 18 in reserve, according to the U.S.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 16, 2026

Australia holds roughly 37 days' worth of petrol in reserve, according to government figures, far below the 90-day minimum dictated by the International Energy Agency.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

While major chip makers have some helium supply in reserve, there’s some uncertainty about what would transpire if the conflict were to drag on and disrupt helium production over a longer span.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 13, 2026

They were content to contain and deter Iran, keeping war in reserve if it really did try to get a nuclear weapon.

From BBC • Mar. 11, 2026

“One: the original. Sometimes it goes on display at city hall. Two: the one given to the winner. Three: held in reserve in case crown number two goes missing.”

From "Dumplin'" by Julie Murphy

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