Reformat Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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reformat

[ˌriːˈfɔːmæt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

text editing

To change the format or layout of something, especially written or digital content.

Synonyms

rearrange, reorganize, restructure, revise.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
reformat	Similar to 'reformat', this word is used when changing the format, often in digital contexts, and can be used interchangeably with 'reformat.' It appears to have been listed twice, possibly in error. The document needs to be reformat before submission We should reformat the database for better performance
rearrange	Appropriate when changing the order or position of items, physically or conceptually, often for better organization or presentation. Can we rearrange the meeting schedule? She decided to rearrange the furniture in the living room
restructure	Best used in formal or business contexts, indicating significant and often strategic changes to an organization's structure or system, usually to improve efficiency or financial health. The management plans to restructure the company to cut costs After the financial crisis, many banks had to restructure their operations
reorganize	Suitable when systematically planning a new structure, whether for physical spaces, organizations, or workflows. It implies making comprehensive changes to improve efficiency or effectiveness. The company decided to reorganize its departments to improve productivity Let's reorganize the kitchen to make it more functional
revise	Most appropriate for making changes or updates to written documents or plans, typically to improve clarity, accuracy, or comprehensiveness. Often used in academic or editorial contexts. You need to revise your essay before submitting it The committee decided to revise the policy document

Examples of usage

I need to reformat this document before sending it out.
She reformat her resume to make it more visually appealing.
The website needs to be reformatted for mobile devices.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

computing

The act of modifying the format of data or information stored in a computer.

Synonyms

reconfiguration, reorganization, restructuring.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
reformat	Typically used in the context of computers and digital storage. It implies erasing existing data and setting up a new structure for storage devices. I had to reformat my hard drive to fix the error. Make sure to back up your files before reformatting the USB stick.
reconfiguration	Often applied when changing the arrangement or setup of something, especially in technical or organizational settings. The network reconfiguration improved internet speed. We need to reconfigure the system to support more users.
restructuring	Typically refers to significant changes in the structure, often within a company or organization, particularly during financial difficulties. It can have a negative connotation. The restructuring of the company resulted in many layoffs. After realizing the loss, they planned a corporate restructuring.
reorganization	Used when talking about changing the structure of an organization or system. It is commonly used in business settings. The company's reorganization led to some departments being merged. The reorganization of the school district was necessary due to budget cuts.

Examples of usage

The reformat of the hard drive will erase all data.
A reformatting error occurred during the software update.
It is important to back up your files before a reformat.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Technology

In computing, to reformat a hard drive means to erase all data and set up a new file system.
Reformatting a document can change font types, sizes, or even orientations for better readability.
Many mobile devices allow users to reformat their storage cards for better compatibility with different devices.

Education

Reformatting notes can help students organize their learning and improve memory retention.
Teachers often encourage students to reformat their essays according to specific styles like MLA or APA to standardize presentations.

Pop Culture

Reformatting existing stories into movies or series often generates buzz, especially in the realm of adaptations.
Many artists reformat traditional music styles into modern sounds, creating hybrid genres that appeal to diverse audiences.

Psychology

The concept of 'cognitive reformatting' involves changing how we think about our experiences to alter our emotional responses.
Reformatting thoughts can help in coping strategies, allowing individuals to approach problems from a new perspective.

Origin of 'reformat'

Main points about word origin

The prefix 're-' indicates doing something again, while 'format' comes from the Latin 'formatio,' meaning 'forming or shaping'.
The term began to gain popularity in the 1980s with the rise of personal computers and word processing software.

The word 'reformat' originates from the combination of 're-' meaning 'again' and 'format' meaning 'the way in which something is arranged or presented'. It first appeared in the late 20th century with the rise of digital technology and has since become widely used in the fields of text editing and computing.