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Rebuild Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”จ
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rebuild

[หŒriหหˆbษชld ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

construction

To build something again after it has been damaged or destroyed.

Synonyms

reconstruct, renovate, restore.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rebuild

Suitable when something has been completely destroyed or damaged and needs to be built again from scratch.

  • After the earthquake, the town needed to rebuild the school.
  • They decided to rebuild the bridges that were destroyed in the war.
reconstruct

Used when making something again, often from the remaining parts or using new parts to replicate the original, often with more detail and precision.

  • Archaeologists managed to reconstruct the ancient temple from the ruins.
  • The forensic team worked to reconstruct the events of the crime.
restore

Fitting for bringing something back to its original condition, often with a sense of preserving its historical value.

  • Experts were called in to restore the ancient painting.
  • The city plans to restore the old cathedral to its former glory.
renovate

Appropriate for improving, updating, or making changes to buildings or structures, often to make them look newer or more modern.

  • They decided to renovate the old house instead of selling it.
  • The hotel will be closed for six months as it undergoes major renovations.

Examples of usage

  • The city plans to rebuild the old bridge.
  • After the earthquake, they had to rebuild their house from scratch.
Context #2 | Verb

relationship

To establish a close relationship with someone again after a period of separation or estrangement.

Synonyms

reconnect, reestablish, rekindle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rebuild

Suitable for situations involving the physical reconstruction or major repair of structures, systems, or projects.

  • The city needed to rebuild after the devastating earthquake.
  • We must rebuild the bridge that collapsed last year.
reconnect

Appropriate when talking about reestablishing personal or professional relationships, or re-engaging with past interests or activities.

  • After many years, she decided to reconnect with her childhood friend.
  • He hopes to reconnect with his love for painting.
reestablish

Used when discussing the act of reintroducing or restoring something to its former state, often in a formal or systematic context.

  • The committee aims to reestablish trust between the company and its clients.
  • Efforts are underway to reestablish the old trade routes.
rekindle

Best suited for describing the revival of emotions, feelings, or interests, especially in a romantic or emotional context.

  • They went on a trip to rekindle their romance.
  • Reading the old letters helped her rekindle her passion for writing.

Examples of usage

  • After their argument, it took time to rebuild trust in their friendship.
  • The team worked hard to rebuild their coach's confidence in them.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • After World War II, many countries had to 'rebuild' their cities and infrastructure from the destruction of the war.
  • The Great Rebuilding of San Francisco occurred after the 1906 earthquake, leading to new architectural styles and urban planning.
  • Post-apartheid South Africa emphasized the need to 'rebuild' society and rectify past injustices.

Literature

  • In literature, the theme of 'rebuilding' often symbolizes hope and renewal, seen in works like 'The Grapes of Wrath' where characters rebuild their lives amid hardship.
  • Fiction often depicts characters physically or emotionally 'rebuilding' themselves after trauma, such as in 'A Man Called Ove' where the protagonist finds new purpose in life.

Psychology

  • In psychological terms, 'rebuilding' refers to the process of recovery after trauma, focusing on healing and growth.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy often involves 'rebuilding' thought patterns to help individuals cope with anxiety or depression.

Pop Culture

  • The popular video game Minecraft allows players to 'rebuild' their worlds creatively using various resources.
  • In movies and TV shows, characters often go on journeys to 'rebuild' their lives after personal crises, showcasing resilience and strength.

Origin of 'rebuild'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the prefix 're-', meaning 'again,' combined with 'build,' which has Old English roots meaning 'to form by combining materials.'
  • In Middle English, it was used as 'rebilden,' indicating the action of creating something anew after it has fallen apart.

The word 'rebuild' originated from the combination of the prefix 're-' meaning 'again' and the verb 'build'. It first appeared in the English language in the late 16th century. The concept of rebuilding has been essential throughout history, as civilizations have often needed to reconstruct and restore structures after wars, disasters, or other events of destruction.

See also: build, builder, builders, building, buildup, built, inbuilt, rebuilder, rebuilding, unbuilt.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,588, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.