Merry-Making Countdown: "Remained" or "Left" – Which One's Got the Christmas Spirit?
As the festive season approaches, excitement fills the air. Amid gift-wrapping, caroling, and tree trimming, a question arises: "How many days are remained left until Christmas?" Should we use "remained" or "left" to express the time remaining before the big day?
"Remained" and "left" indicate something that continues to exist after a period. When measuring time, both words can be used interchangeably. For example, we can say, "There are only five days remained left until Christmas," or "There are only five days left before Christmas." Both sentences convey the same message.
Subtle differences exist between these two terms. "Remained" suggests continuity, as if the days leading to Christmas are part of a larger timeframe. Conversely, "left" implies immediacy, indicating that the days before Christmas represent a final stretch.
Choosing between "remained" and "left" depends on the writer's tone and style. For a formal or academic tone, "remained" may be a better fit. It's a more traditional choice. If aiming for a casual, conversational style, "left" is more suitable. It is relaxed and relatable.
Here are some examples to illustrate the usage of "remained" and "left" in context:
- Remained: "With only three days remained left until Christmas, the townspeople bustled about, their hearts filled with joy." (Formal)
- Left: "Just two days left before Christmas! Grab your loved ones, bake some cookies, and soak in the festive cheer." (Casual)
- Remained: "As the year draws to a close, precious few days remained left to cherish family and friends." (Formal)
- Left: "With a week left before Christmas, the malls and stores were packed with last-minute shoppers." (Casual)
Both "remained" and "left" are grammatically correct. The choice depends on the writer's desired tone and style. As long as the intended meaning is clear, either word can be used effectively.
As the Christmas countdown continues, let’s embrace the magic of the season and cherish the moments with our loved ones.
