What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
recant
Example
The politician recanted his earlier statement and apologized for his mistake. [recanted: past tense]
Example
The scientist was forced to recant his theory after new evidence emerged. [recanting: gerund or present participle]
renounce
Example
The king renounced his throne and retired to a life of seclusion. [renounced: past tense]
Example
She renounced her former religion and embraced a new one. [renouncing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Renounce is more commonly used than recant in everyday language. Renounce is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while recant is less common and is typically used in legal or religious contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between recant and renounce?
Both recant and renounce can be used in formal contexts, but recant is more commonly associated with legal or religious contexts, while renounce can be used in a wider range of formal contexts.
