Reconstruction: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this term when discussing the rebuilding or reassembly of something, especially in situations involving major structures, historical sites, or after significant destruction. It often implies a meticulous process to restore something closer to its original form.

• The reconstruction of the ancient city took several decades.
• After the war, the country's reconstruction efforts focused on infrastructure.

Used when returning something to its former condition, appearance, or function. Typically applied in the context of art, buildings, or antique items that need careful and accurate repair to preserve authenticity.

• The restoration of the old painting revealed its original colors.
• The car underwent extensive restoration to bring it back to its 1960s glory.

Ideal for everyday use, particularly when repairing or constructing something again that was damaged or destroyed. It is a general term for putting something back together.

• The community came together to help with the rebuilding of the local school.
• Rebuilding their house after the hurricane was a tough journey.

Best suited for situations where something is being created again for enjoyment, entertainment, or to relive an experience. This often involves creating a new version or simulation rather than restoring the original piece.

• The theme park offers a recreation of historic villages.
• The artist's work is a recreation of famous movie scenes using miniatures.

This word often refers to the process of rebuilding something that has been damaged or destroyed, especially in a more large-scale or formal sense, such as historical buildings, cities after disasters, or even political systems.

• The reconstruction of the historical monument took over five years.
• After the war, the country underwent a period of reconstruction to restore its infrastructure.

Rebuilding is used more specifically for physically putting things back together, especially structures or buildings, but can also be used metaphorically in less formal contexts.

• They are rebuilding their house after it was damaged by the storm.
• She is in the process of rebuilding her life after the accident.

Recovery is more general and often used when talking about health, economy, or situations; it means returning to a normal or improved state after a period of difficulty or damage.

• The patient is showing good signs of recovery after the surgery.
• The economy is on the path to recovery following the recession.

Renewal is used when something is being made new or fresh again, and can apply to subscriptions, leases, or even personal energy and spirit; it often has a positive connotation.

• She felt a sense of renewal after taking a long vacation.
• The renewal of the contract will ensure the company's continuous service.

Appropriate when talking about the process of building something again, especially a building or structure that has been damaged or destroyed.

• The reconstruction of the old bridge took two years.
• After the earthquake, the reconstruction of the city began immediately.

Best suited for describing the process of returning to a normal state after a period of difficulty, illness, or trouble. Can be used for both physical objects and more abstract concepts like the economy or health.

• The patient's recovery after surgery was remarkable.
• The economy is slowly showing signs of recovery.

Generally used to describe the process of developing something again with significant changes, often in urban planning or large-scale projects involving multiple buildings or districts.

• The city council announced plans for the redevelopment of the downtown area.
• The old industrial site is set for redevelopment into a modern housing complex.