What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
salvage
Example
The firefighters worked hard to salvage what they could from the burning building. [salvage: verb]
Example
The company was able to salvage some of the materials from the old factory before it was demolished. [salvage: verb]
reclaim
Example
The police were able to reclaim the stolen artwork and return it to the museum. [reclaim: verb]
Example
The city is working to reclaim the polluted river and restore it to its natural state. [reclaim: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Reclaim is more commonly used than salvage in everyday language. Reclaim is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while salvage is less common and often used in emergency or disaster situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between salvage and reclaim?
Both salvage and reclaim can be used in formal and informal contexts, but reclaim may be slightly more formal due to its wider range of applications and positive connotations.
