What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reprise
Example
The orchestra played a reprise of the main theme at the end of the concert. [reprise: noun]
Example
Let's reprise our earlier discussion about the budget. [reprise: verb]
Example
The theater company is planning to do a reprise of their popular show next month. [reprise: noun]
rerun
Example
I missed the episode last night, but I can catch the rerun tomorrow. [rerun: noun]
Example
They're rerunning the championship game from last year on ESPN. [rerunning: gerund or present participle]
Example
The theater is rerunning the classic movie for its anniversary. [rerun: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Rerun is more commonly used than reprise in everyday language, especially in the context of television shows and movies. Reprise is less common and is typically used in the context of music or theater.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between reprise and rerun?
Reprise is more formal and sophisticated than rerun, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.