Renew: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when restarting or extending the validity of something, such as a contract, subscription, or license. It can also mean revitalizing or updating something.

• I need to renew my driver's license before it expires.
• They decided to renew their vows on their 10th anniversary.

Best used when lengthening the duration of something, such as a deadline or physical space.

• We've decided to extend the application deadline.
• The company plans to extend its office building.

Suitable when deliberately making something last longer than usual, often with a slightly negative connotation of delay or dragging out.

• The medication was used to prolong the patient's life.
• Let's not prolong this meeting any longer than necessary.

Appropriate when something is to carry on without interruption or to resume after a pause.

• Let's continue this discussion after lunch.
• The show will continue despite the rain.

Appropriate when revitalizing or renewing energy or appearance, often used for people, systems, or content.

• A short nap can help refresh your mind.
• She refreshed the webpage to see the latest updates.

Apply 'renew' when updating or extending the duration of something that already exists, like a contract, subscription, or lease.

• Please remember to renew your library membership before it expires.
• The magazine company offered a discount to renew my annual subscription.

Use 'restore' to return something to its original condition or state, often used in contexts of fixing or repairing objects, relationships, or health.

• The old church was restored to its former glory.
• Efforts were made to restore peace in the troubled region.

Apply 'revive' when bringing back to life, consciousness, or a more active state, often used for living beings, interest, or activities.

• The lifeguard was able to revive the drowning swimmer.
• The festival was revived after decades of being forgotten.

Use 'regenerate' when discussing the process of growing back or being completely restored, often related to biological or ecological contexts. This word implies a more fundamental rebuilding.

• Salamanders have the ability to regenerate lost limbs.
• Community programs aimed to regenerate the local economy.

Apply 'replenish' when referring to refilling or restoring supply to a previous level, often used for resources like food, liquid, or energy.

• We need to replenish the pantry before the long weekend.
• After a long run, it's important to replenish your fluids.

When something needs to be made like new again or to extend its validity, such as contracts, subscriptions, or energy.

• She decided to renew her gym membership.
• Taking a break helped him renew his energy.

Indicates a major change in shape, appearance, or character, often implying a complete or dramatic change.

• The caterpillar transforms into a butterfly.
• The new leadership aims to transform the company culture.

Used when something needs a boost of energy or activity, often related to communities, economies, or businesses.

• The mayor's new plan aims to revitalize the downtown area.
• The investment helped revitalize the struggling company.

Typically related to restoring youthfulness or vitality, often used in context with health, beauty, or relaxation.

• A spa day can really rejuvenate your spirit.
• The new lotion claims to rejuvenate tired skin.

Used to describe a complete and often significant new beginning, possibly involving spiritual or personal growth.

• The country experienced a cultural rebirth after the revolution.
• Spring symbolizes rebirth and new beginnings.