What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reload
Example
He quickly reloaded his gun and continued firing. [reload: verb]
Example
I had to reload the webpage to see the new comments. [reload: verb]
Example
The vending machine needs to be reloaded with snacks. [reloaded: past participle]
refresh
Example
A cold shower can refresh you after a long day. [refresh: verb]
Example
I need to refresh my memory on the details of the project. [refresh: verb]
Example
Let's take a quick break to refresh ourselves before continuing. [refresh: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Refresh is more commonly used than reload in everyday language. Refresh is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while reload is more specific and less commonly used outside of certain contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between reload and refresh?
Both reload and refresh are relatively neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.