reuse
Definition
Verb: 1. To use again: To employ an item or material for a purpose after its initial use has concluded, often without significant reprocessing. 2. To use after processing: To employ an item or material again following some form of treatment or preparation, such as cleaning or refurbishment.
Usage
The verb "reuse" describes the action of giving an object a subsequent useful life. It emphasizes extending the utility of an item and is a core concept in waste reduction and sustainability. It is a transitive verb, requiring a direct object.
Examples
Basic Usage:
- Please reuse this glass jar for storing spices.
- The company encourages employees to reuse paper by printing on both sides.
- She cleverly reused the old wooden doors to make a table.
With Processing Implied:
- After washing, the bottles can be reused.
- The software code was reused in the new application with minor modifications.
Advanced Usage
- "To be reused" (Passive Voice): Indicates the object is the recipient of the action.
- Plastic containers should be thoroughly cleaned before they are reused for food.
- Conceptual Reuse: Applying an idea, method, or component in a new context.
- The architect reused the design concept from her earlier project.
Variants and Related Words
- Reusable (adjective): Capable of being used more than once.
- Bring a reusable bag to the grocery store.
- Reusability (noun): The quality or degree to which something can be reused.
- The reusability of the packaging is a key selling point.
Synonyms
- Repurpose: To adapt for a use different from the original.
- Recycle: To process used materials to make new products (often involves breaking down the material).
- Employ again: A more formal way to express using something another time.
Related Phrases
- Single-use: Designed to be used only once (antonym concept).
- Avoid single-use plastics whenever possible.
- Reuse and recycle: A common environmental slogan pairing the two concepts.
Verb
-
use again after processing
-
We must recycle the cardboard boxes
-
