What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
retracted
Example
The author retracted their previous statement due to new evidence. [retracted: verb]
Example
The company retracted their offer after discovering the candidate's criminal record. [retracted: past tense]
withdrawn
Example
He was always withdrawn and kept to himself at parties. [withdrawn: adjective]
Example
I need to withdraw some cash from the ATM. [withdraw: verb]
Example
The plaintiff withdrew their lawsuit after reaching a settlement. [withdrew: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Withdrawn is more commonly used than retracted in everyday language. Withdrawn is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while retracted is less common and often used in scientific or academic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between retracted and withdrawn?
Both retracted and withdrawn can be used in legal or formal contexts, but retracted may be more formal due to its association with scientific or academic language.
