Recapture: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when speaking about taking back control or possession of something by force or effort, often used in military or competitive contexts.

• The army managed to recapture the city from the rebels.
• They tried to recapture the glory days with a reunion tour.

Refers to getting back something that was lost, more general and can apply to health, control, balance, etc.

• He managed to regain his composure after the shocking news.
• After a long illness, she finally regained her health.

Implied when regaining something that was lost, often used with land, rights, or status, and sometimes has a sense of moral or legal right.

• She worked hard to reclaim her reputation after the scandal.
• The government has plans to reclaim land from the sea.

Typically used in financial and legal contexts, referring to taking back property, often due to a breach of contract or non-payment. Often has a negative connotation.

• The bank had to repossess the car because he failed to make the payments.
• They faced the threat of having their house repossessed.

Generally used when talking about taking back or regaining possession of something that was lost or taken. It has a tactical or strategic connotation, typical in military contexts or competitive sports.

• The army managed to recapture the city from the enemy forces.
• The chess player aims to recapture his lost advantage.

Commonly used in educational settings, film production, or military contexts. It implies performing an action again, whether it's a test, a scene, or a strategic position.

• John had to retake the math exam because he failed it the first time.
• The director asked the actors to do a retake of the scene due to poor lighting.
• The troops were ordered to retake the hill from the enemy.

Used primarily in historical or formal contexts, referring to the act of conquering again or reclaiming a territory or objective. It has a grander, more formal tone compared to 'recapture' or 'retake'.

• The reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula was a significant historical event.
• The king vowed to begin the reconquest of the lands lost by his ancestors.