What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reconstrue
Example
After reading the book again, I was able to reconstrue the author's intended message. [reconstrue: verb]
Example
The therapist helped me reconstrue my negative thoughts and emotions into positive ones. [reconstruing: gerund or present participle]
reconstruct
Example
The city plans to reconstruct the bridge after it was damaged in the storm. [reconstruct: verb]
Example
The archaeologists were able to reconstruct the ancient temple using the artifacts they found. [reconstructed: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Reconstruct is more commonly used than reconstrue in everyday language. Reconstruct is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while reconstrue is less common and more specialized.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between reconstrue and reconstruct?
Reconstrue is typically associated with a more formal and intellectual tone, while reconstruct can be used in both formal and informal contexts.