What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
rewriting
Example
After receiving feedback from my professor, I spent hours rewriting my essay. [rewriting: gerund or present participle]
Example
The author decided to rewrite the ending of the novel to make it more impactful. [rewrite: verb]
revising
Example
I always revise my papers before submitting them to catch any mistakes. [revise: verb]
Example
The editor suggested revising the introduction to make it more engaging. [revising: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Revising is more commonly used than rewriting in everyday language. Revising is a standard part of the writing process and is taught in schools and universities, while rewriting is a more specialized term used in professional writing contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between rewriting and revising?
Both rewriting and revising can be used in formal and informal contexts, but rewriting is more likely to be used in professional or academic settings where extensive revisions are necessary.
