What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reclaim
Example
The company is working to reclaim the land after years of pollution. [reclaim: verb]
Example
He was able to reclaim his stolen bike from the pawn shop. [reclaim: verb]
Example
The artist creates sculptures using reclaimed wood. [reclaimed: adjective]
redeem
Example
She tried to redeem herself after making a mistake at work. [redeem: verb]
Example
I redeemed my points for a free movie ticket. [redeemed: verb]
Example
The hero redeemed himself by saving the city from destruction. [redeemed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Redeem is more commonly used than reclaim in everyday language. Redeem is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while reclaim is less common and often used in specific contexts such as environmental sustainability or resource management.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between reclaim and redeem?
Both reclaim and redeem can be used in formal and informal contexts, but redeem may have a slightly more formal connotation due to its association with religious and legal contexts.