to continue to have; to keep in existence, or not allow to become less

The army has been brought in to maintain order in the region. 军队已被调来维持这一地区的秩序。

We have standards to maintain. 我们要坚持原则。

Despite living in different countries, the two families have maintained close links. 尽管住在不同的国家，两个家庭仍保持着紧密联系。

The film has maintained its position as the critics' favourite for another year. 这部电影再度被评论家评为年度最佳影片。

to keep a road, machine, building, etc. in good condition

A large house costs a lot to maintain. 保养一座大房子花费很高。

The roads in the town have been very poorly maintained. 城镇的道路保养得很差。

to express firmly your belief that something is true

Throughout his prison sentence, Dunn has always maintained his innocence. 邓恩在监狱服刑期间一直坚称自己是无辜的。

[ + that ] He maintains that he has never seen the woman before. 他坚称以前从未见过那位妇女。

to provide someone with food and whatever is necessary for them to live on

They barely earn enough to maintain themselves and their four children. 他们赚的钱勉强够养活自己和4个孩子。