Retrieving: meaning, definitions and examples

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retrieving

 

[ rɪˈtriːvɪŋ ]

Noun / Verb
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.

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

Etymology

The word 'retrieving' originated from the Old French word 'retreuver', which meant 'to find again'. The term evolved over time to its current usage in English, particularly in the fields of information technology and general retrieval processes.

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.