What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
recollect
Example
I can't quite recollect where I put my keys. [recollect: verb]
Example
She tried hard to recollect the details of the conversation. [recollect: verb]
retrieve
Example
I need to retrieve my phone from the car. [retrieve: verb]
Example
He was able to retrieve the file from his computer. [retrieve: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Retrieve is more commonly used than recollect in everyday language. Retrieve is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while recollect is less common and is typically used in more introspective or reflective contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between recollect and retrieve?
Both recollect and retrieve are considered formal words, but retrieve may be slightly more formal due to its practical connotation.
