Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Reusing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”„
Add to dictionary

reusing

[riหหˆjuหzษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

reduce waste

Using something again for the same purpose, often to reduce waste. It is the act of using an item more than once, either for the same function or for a different function. Reusing helps to conserve natural resources and reduce pollution. It is a key concept in sustainable living and environmental protection.

Synonyms

recycling, repurposing, upcycling.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
reusing

This is when you use an item more than once in its original form, often with the same purpose it was originally intended for. It's a common practice in everyday life to reduce waste.

  • I am reusing this glass jar to store my spices.
  • Reusing plastic bags for groceries can help reduce plastic waste.
recycling

This involves breaking down used items into raw materials to create new products. It often requires industrial processing and is a step towards reducing pollution.

  • Recycling aluminum cans saves a significant amount of energy.
  • Our city has a program for recycling paper, plastic, and glass.
repurposing

This refers to using an item in a new way or for a different purpose than it was originally intended, often without significant modification. It encourages creativity and sustainability.

  • She is repurposing an old ladder as a bookshelf.
  • Repurposing wine bottles as candle holders can add a rustic charm to your home.
upcycling

Upcycling means transforming a used item into something of higher quality or value than the original, often through creative alterations. It emphasizes environmental consciousness and artfulness.

  • He's upcycling old jeans into trendy handbags.
  • Upcycling pallets into furniture can add a unique look to your living space.

Examples of usage

  • By reusing old jars as containers, you can reduce the need for new plastic containers.
  • Instead of throwing away old clothes, consider donating them or reusing them for craft projects.
  • Reusing shopping bags instead of using new ones each time can help reduce plastic waste.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Environmental Science

  • Reusing items can significantly reduce waste and carbon footprint, as it minimizes the need for new products.
  • The 'Reduce, Reuse, Recycle' mantra started gaining traction in the 1970s as part of the environmental movement.

Economics

  • Reusing products can save money, as it often reduces the need to purchase new items.
  • Many businesses are adopting circular economy models, where reusing materials is key to sustainable profitability.

Innovative Practices

  • Creative reusing practices include upcycling, where old items are transformed into something new and valuable.
  • Community initiatives often promote reusing through swap events, where people exchange items they no longer need.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures have various traditional practices for reusing items, reflecting values of sustainability and resourcefulness.
  • In some Indigenous cultures, reusing is integral to their way of life, showcasing respect for natural resources.

Origin of 'reusing'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'reuse' is formed from the prefix 're-' meaning 'again' and 'use', which has been in English since the Middle Ages.
  • In the early 20th century, the idea of reusing materials began to gain popularity as people recognized the importance of conservation.

The term 'reusing' has its origins in the practice of conservation and resource management. Throughout history, people have found ways to reuse items to minimize waste and make the most of available resources. In contemporary times, reusing has become a central tenet of environmental sustainability efforts, aiming to reduce the strain on natural resources and lower the environmental impact of human activities.

See also: abuse, disuse, disused, misuse, misused, overuse, peruse, reusableness, reuse, underuse, unusable, unused, usability, usable, usage, used, useful, usefully, usefulness, useless, uselessness, users, using, usual, utensil, utilize.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,584 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.