What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fetched
Example
I fetched my keys from the car. [fetched: past tense]
Example
Can you fetch me a glass of water? [fetch: verb]
Example
She fetched the book from the library for her friend. [fetched: past participle]
retrieved
Example
He retrieved his phone from the lost and found. [retrieved: past tense]
Example
The dog retrieved the ball from the lake. [retrieved: past tense]
Example
She retrieved the file from the archives. [retrieved: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fetched is more commonly used than retrieved in everyday language, as it is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fetched and retrieved?
Retrieved is more formal than fetched, and is often used in professional or technical contexts. It can also have a positive or negative connotation depending on the context, while fetched has a neutral connotation.
