What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reused
Example
I reused the plastic container to store leftovers. [reused: verb]
Example
The old tire was reused as a planter in the garden. [reused: past participle]
recycle
Example
We recycle paper, plastic, and glass at our house. [recycle: verb]
Example
The city has a recycling program that collects materials every week. [recycling: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Recycle is more commonly used than reused in everyday language. Recycle is a well-known term that is widely used in discussions about environmental sustainability and waste reduction. Reused is less common and is often used in specific contexts where the focus is on reusing a particular item or material.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between reused and recycle?
Both reused and recycle are versatile terms that can be used in various formality levels, allowing them to be used in both formal and informal contexts.