What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reuse
Example
I reused the plastic container to store leftovers. [reuse: verb]
Example
The artist reused old materials to create a new sculpture. [reused: past tense]
reutilize
Example
The company reutilized the existing software for the new project. [reutilize: verb]
Example
The engineer reutilized the old parts to build a more efficient machine. [reutilized: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Reuse is more common than reutilize in everyday language and covers a wider range of contexts. Reutilize is more technical and formal, and is often used in specific industries or fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between reuse and reutilize?
Reuse is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while reutilize is more technical and formal, and is often used in professional or academic settings.