Recuperate: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in formal or medical contexts to describe the process of regaining health or strength after illness or injury.

• After the surgery, she needed a few weeks to recuperate

Commonly used to describe the process of returning to normal functioning or health after an illness, injury, or difficult situation.

• She has finally recovered from the flu

Generally used when referring to the process of becoming healthy or whole again, both physically and emotionally.

• It took months for his broken leg to heal

Used when someone takes back or reclaims something that was lost, often in terms of health, strength, or composure.

• He worked hard to regain his strength after the accident

Informal term often used when someone quickly returns to their previous level of health or happiness after facing difficulties or illness.

• Even after losing his job, he managed to bounce back quickly

Used primarily when talking about recovering health or strength after illness or exertion.

• After the surgery, the doctor advised her to take time off work to recuperate
• He went to the countryside to recuperate from the stress of city life

Can be used generally for regaining health, possession, or a state that was lost.

• She hopes to recover her lost files
• After the accident, he took a month to fully recover

Used when talking about getting back something that was lost, especially qualities, possessions, or positions.

• He worked hard to regain his confidence
• After going on a diet, she managed to regain her previous fitness level

An idiomatic expression used to indicate making amends or counterbalancing a disadvantage or error.

• He worked extra hours to make up for his previous mistakes
• The stunning view from the hotel room makes up for its small size

Used when discussing making amends or providing something (usually money) in return for a loss, suffering, or injury.

• The company agreed to compensate the workers for their overtime
• She was compensated for the damage done to her property