What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
recanting
Example
The politician recanted his earlier statement about the issue. [recanted: verb]
Example
After much reflection, she recanted her support for the controversial policy. [recanting: gerund or present participle]
abjure
Example
The scientist abjured his earlier theory after new evidence emerged. [abjured: verb]
Example
She decided to abjure her former political party and join a new one. [abjure: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Both recanting and abjure are relatively uncommon in everyday language, but recanting is more commonly used in legal or religious contexts, while abjure can be used in a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between recanting and abjure?
Abjure is generally considered more formal and serious than recanting, and is often used in formal contexts such as legal or political settings. Recanting is less formal and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
