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Retrieving: meaning, definitions and examples

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retrieving

 

[rɪˈtriːvɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

information technology

The process of obtaining data or information stored in a computer system.

Synonyms

accessing, fetching, retrieval.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
retrieving

This word is often used when talking about getting something back from a known location or situation, especially in technical or everyday contexts.

  • She is retrieving the data from the server.
  • The dog is retrieving the ball.
fetching

Fetching is typically used in more casual or physical contexts, such as bringing something from one place to another. It can also be used in computing, but often in an informal tone.

  • Can you fetch me a glass of water?
  • The computer is fetching the required files for the operation.
accessing

Accessing is used when talking about gaining entry to or using something, often in terms of information or places. It’s commonly used in scenarios involving digital or restricted resources.

  • He is accessing the building with his ID card.
  • I need help accessing my email account.
retrieval

Retrieval is a noun and is often used in formal or technical contexts to describe the act of getting something back or recovering information.

  • The retrieval of these documents is crucial for the investigation.
  • Information retrieval systems are essential for managing digital libraries.

Examples of usage

  • Retrieving a file from the server.
  • The retrieving of emails from the inbox.
  • The retrieving of search results from the database.
Context #2 | Verb

general

To get or bring something back; to regain possession of something.

Synonyms

fetch, recover, regain.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
retrieving

Repeated entry of word 'retrieving'. Use the definition provided for the first instance.

  • Use the examples provided for the first instance
regain

Often used when you get back something that is intangible like trust, control, or health, usually after a loss or setback.

  • She needs to regain her confidence after the failure
  • The company is trying to regain its market share
recover

Generally used when you get back something that was lost or taken, often implies difficulty in getting it back. It also can refer to getting better after an illness.

  • She managed to recover her stolen bike
  • He is recovering well after the surgery
fetch

Implies going somewhere to get something, often used for pets or people doing simple tasks. It can sometimes sound a bit informal or playful.

  • The dog loves to fetch the ball
  • Can you fetch me a glass of water?

Examples of usage

  • He retrieved his lost keys from the lost and found.
  • She retrieved the ball that had gone over the fence.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Middle English term 'retrieven', which means 'to recover', blending the prefix 're-' (again) with 'trieve' (to bring).
  • It has roots in the Old French word 'retrouver', meaning 'to find again', showing a link to discovery.
  • The original Latin word 'retrahe' means 'to draw back', indicating the action of pulling something back into reach.

Psychology

  • Memory retrieval is a critical process in cognitive psychology, where our brains access stored information.
  • Retrieving information can sometimes trigger emotions linked to the memories, influencing our mood and behavior.
  • The 'serial position effect' describes how we remember the first and last items in a list better than the middle ones when retrieving memories.

Technology

  • In computer science, retrieving data refers to accessing information stored in databases or clouds.
  • Search engines work by retrieving data quickly based on your queries, sifting through billions of pages.
  • Artificial intelligence systems regularly use sophisticated algorithms to improve the speed and accuracy of information retrieval.

Literature

  • In storytelling, characters often undergo a journey of retrieving lost knowledge or memories, which drives the plot forward.
  • Classic literature often features themes of retrieval, such as Odysseus retrieving his home and identity in 'The Odyssey'.
  • In poetry, the act of retrieving can symbolize the search for truth and understanding, as seen in many works reflecting on memories.

Education

  • Retrieving information is a fundamental part of learning; it helps solidify knowledge through practice.
  • Educational strategies like quizzes enhance the ability to retrieve learned material, reinforcing long-term memory.
  • Active recall techniques, where students test themselves on better memory retrieval, are proven to improve retention.

Translations

Translations of the word "retrieving" in other languages:

🇵🇹 recuperar

🇮🇳 प्राप्त करना

🇩🇪 abrufen

🇮🇩 mengambil

🇺🇦 отримання

🇵🇱 odzyskiwanie

🇯🇵 取得する

🇫🇷 récupérer

🇪🇸 recuperar

🇹🇷 geri almak

🇰🇷 검색

🇸🇦 استرجاع

🇨🇿 získávání

🇸🇰 získavanie

🇨🇳 检索

🇸🇮 pridobivanje

🇮🇸 endurheimta

🇰🇿 қайтару

🇬🇪 მიღება

🇦🇿 geri alma

🇲🇽 recuperar

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,706, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.