Definition

Verb: To express the same idea, message, or meaning using different words. It involves restating or paraphrasing something to achieve greater clarity, simplicity, or a different stylistic effect.

Usage

The verb "reword" is used when you need to change the phrasing of a statement, question, or text without altering its core meaning. It is commonly used in contexts like editing, simplifying instructions, clarifying communication, or avoiding plagiarism by paraphrasing.

Examples

• The editor asked me to reword the confusing paragraph.
• Could you reword that question? I didn't understand it.
• She reworded the legal document to make it easier for the public to understand.
• The student had to reword the passage in his own words for the assignment.

Advanced Usage

• "Reword for clarity": A common instruction meaning to change the wording specifically to make the meaning clearer.
  • The feedback on my report said, "Please reword this section for clarity."
• "Reword a statement": Often used in diplomacy, public relations, or conflict resolution to soften or change the tone of an original message.
  • The spokesperson carefully reworded the CEO's blunt statement.

Variants and Related Words

• Rewording (noun): The act or result of expressing something in different words.
  • A simple rewording of the policy made it much more acceptable.
• Rewritten (verb, past participle of "rewrite"): While "rewrite" can involve more substantial changes to content and structure, "reworded" focuses specifically on changing the phrasing.

Synonyms

• Rephrase: To phrase again, especially in a different way. (Very close in meaning to "reword".)
• Paraphrase: To express the meaning of something using different words, often for explanation or clarity.
• Restate: To state again or in a new way.

Antonyms

• Quote: To repeat the exact words from a source.
• Plagiarize: To use someone else's words or ideas without changing them and without giving credit.

Related Phrases

• Put in other words: An informal phrase similar in meaning to "reword."
  • Let me put that in other words so it's easier to understand.

Verb

1. express the same message in different words