What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
recitation
Example
The student gave a flawless recitation of the poem. [recitation: noun]
Example
The teacher asked for a recitation of the multiplication table. [recitation: noun]
Example
She practiced the recitation of her lines for the play. [recitation: noun]
repetition
Example
He did the same exercise in repetition until he got it right. [repetition: noun]
Example
The artist used repetition of shapes to create a sense of movement in the painting. [repetition: noun]
Example
She asked for a repetition of the instructions to make sure she understood. [repetition: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Repetition is more commonly used than recitation in everyday language. Repetition is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while recitation is less common and often associated with formal settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between recitation and repetition?
Recitation is typically associated with a formal and academic tone, while repetition is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
