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 previous statement about the issue. [recanted: past tense]
Example
The scientist recanted her theory after new evidence emerged. [recanting: gerund or present participle]
retract
Example
The newspaper retracted its earlier report about the celebrity's death. [retracted: past tense]
Example
The company had to retract its promise of a refund due to financial difficulties. [retracting: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Retract is more commonly used than recant in everyday language. Retract is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while recant is less common and has a more specific usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between recant and retract?
Recant is more formal than retract and is often used in legal or religious contexts. Retract is more neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
