remnant

While 'remnants' technically means 'remaining parts,' it often implies tangible, physical remains or leftovers. Using it to describe intangible elements like the lingering effects of a successful past feels slightly off. The word evokes images of ruins or scraps, not the subtle influence of a company's history on its present-day strategies. Japanese learners might choose 'remnants' because it seems like a direct translation of '名残 (nagori),' which can refer to both physical and abstract traces. However, in English, 'echoes' or 'traces' better capture the sense of lingering influence, especially in a business context. This highlights a key difference in how English and Japanese conceptualize the persistence of the past: English often favors metaphors related to sound or visibility for intangible effects, while Japanese allows 'nagori' to encompass a broader range of lingering presences.

Using 'remnants' in this context suggests that the amount donated was very small or undesirable, like scraps left over after something else was used. While technically correct if he donated only a tiny portion, it carries a negative connotation that might not be intended. 'Remainder' is a more neutral and appropriate word when referring to the portion of something that is left, without implying its value or desirability. Japanese speakers might choose 'remnants' because it sounds similar to words describing leftover amounts. However, in English, the subtle connotations of words are crucial. 'Remainder' is the standard term for what's left, while 'remnants' implies something unwanted or insignificant. This difference reflects a cultural emphasis in English on precise and neutral language, avoiding unintended implications, especially when discussing charitable giving.

While 'remnants' can refer to people, it often suggests a small, weak, and largely powerless group. If the members of the old regime are actively trying to seize power, 'surviving elements' is a more accurate and impactful description. 'Remnants' implies they are merely a shadow of their former selves, whereas 'surviving elements' suggests they still possess agency and influence. A Japanese speaker might choose 'remnants' because it seems to capture the idea of something 'left behind.' However, English requires a more nuanced approach to convey the level of agency and power retained by the group. This highlights the importance of considering the implied power dynamics when choosing words, especially in political contexts. The word choice influences the reader's perception of the threat posed by the old regime.