What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
recur
Example
The same issue seems to recur every time we try to implement this project. [recur: verb]
Example
Her name kept recurring in my thoughts throughout the day. [recurring: present participle]
return
Example
I need to return to the office to pick up my laptop. [return: verb]
Example
He returned the book to the library after he finished reading it. [returned: past tense]
Example
Her kindness was met with a warm return from the community. [return: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Return is more commonly used than recur in everyday language. Return is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while recur is less common and often used in technical or specialized contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between recur and return?
Both recur and return can be used in formal and informal contexts, but recur may be more commonly used in technical or specialized writing.
