What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reclaimed
Example
The company reclaimed old wood from a demolished building to use in their new construction project. [reclaimed: verb]
Example
The reclaimed land is now a thriving wetland habitat for local wildlife. [reclaimed: adjective]
Example
I was able to reclaim my stolen bike from the police station. [reclaim: verb]
retrieve
Example
Can you retrieve that book from the top shelf for me? [retrieve: verb]
Example
I need to retrieve my keys from the lost and found. [retrieve: verb]
Example
The software program can retrieve data from multiple sources. [retrieve: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Retrieve is more commonly used than reclaimed in everyday language. Retrieve is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while reclaimed is less common and refers to a specific process of restoration or reuse.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between reclaimed and retrieve?
Both reclaimed and retrieve can be used in formal and informal contexts, but retrieve is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels.
