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verb Uncommon

reuse

ree-YOOS

Reuse (verb) means to use something again, either for the same purpose or a new one, instead of throwing it away. Example: “You can reuse this jar to store spices.”

verb
1
To use something again, either for the same purpose or a new one, instead of throwing it away.
"You can reuse this jar to store spices."
"The company encourages customers to reuse their packaging."
noun
1
The practice of using something again rather than discarding it.
"Reuse is better for the environment than recycling in many cases."

How to use reuse

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishUsing something again instead of throwing it out.

Common mistake

Don't confuse with "recycle" — reuse means using the same item again as-is, while recycling breaks it down into raw material first.

Easily confused with
Common pairings
reuse and recycle reuse a container

Word forms

reused past tense, reuses plural, reuses singular

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

You can _____ this jar to store spices.

Etymology

From re- + use.

Related words

Rhymes for reuse

See all rhymes for reuse →

Frequently asked questions

What does “reuse” mean?

The word “reuse” means to use something again, either for the same purpose or a new one, instead of throwing it away. In plain terms, using something again instead of throwing it out.

How do you pronounce “reuse”?

“Reuse” is pronounced ree-YOOS (/ɹiːˈjuːs/ in IPA).

How do you use “reuse” in a sentence?

Here is “reuse” used in a sentence: “You can reuse this jar to store spices.”

What part of speech is “reuse”?

Depending on how it is used, “reuse” can be a verb and a noun.

Is “reuse” a common word?

“Reuse” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “reuse” have?

“Reuse” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to use something again, either for the same purpose or a new one, instead of throwing it away.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial