Recur vs Reoccur: The Main Differences And When To Use Them

Have you ever found yourself confused about whether to use “recur” or “reoccur”? It’s a common dilemma for many writers, but fear not! In this article, we’ll explore the differences between these two words and provide you with the proper usage for each.

We should clarify what each word means. “Recur” is a verb that means to happen or occur again, typically at regular intervals. On the other hand, “reoccur” is also a verb that means to happen or occur again, but without the connotation of regularity. So, in short, “recur” implies repetition on a regular basis, while “reoccur” simply means something happening again.

Now that we’ve defined the terms, let’s dive deeper into their usage. While both words technically mean the same thing, “recur” is the more commonly used and accepted term. In fact, “reoccur” is often considered a less formal alternative to “recur.”

It’s important to note that when using “recur,” it’s typically followed by the preposition “to.” For example, “The issue recurred after a few weeks.” Meanwhile, “reoccur” is often used without a preposition, such as “The problem reoccurred unexpectedly.”

So, next time you’re unsure whether to use “recur” or “reoccur,” remember that “recur” is the more widely accepted term and implies regularity, while “reoccur” is a less formal alternative that simply means something happening again.

With that said, let’s dive into some common usage scenarios and explore how to use each word properly.

Define Recur

Recur is a verb that means to happen or occur again, especially at regular intervals. It is often used to describe events, situations, or patterns that repeat themselves over time. The word is derived from the Latin word “recursum,” which means to run back.

For example, if a person experiences a recurring headache, it means that they have had the same type of headache multiple times in the past, and it is likely to happen again in the future. Similarly, if a business experiences recurring losses, it means that they have been losing money consistently over a period of time.

Define Reoccur

Reoccur is a verb that means to happen or occur again, but with a connotation of unexpectedness or unpredictability. It is often used to describe events or situations that happen unexpectedly, or that were thought to have been resolved but then happen again.

For example, if a person’s cancer reoccurs, it means that the cancer had been treated or in remission, but then unexpectedly returned. Similarly, if a problem at work reoccurs, it means that the problem had been thought to have been solved, but then unexpectedly resurfaces.

Recap: Recur vs Reoccur

Recur	Reoccur
Happens at regular intervals	Happens unexpectedly or unpredictably
Often used to describe events, situations, or patterns that repeat themselves over time	Often used to describe events or situations that happen unexpectedly, or that were thought to have been resolved but then happen again

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

When it comes to using words in a sentence, it’s important to understand their meanings and how they are spelled. This is especially true for words that are often confused with each other, such as “recur” and “reoccur”. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at how to properly use these two words in a sentence.

How To Use “Recur” In A Sentence

“Recur” is a verb that means to happen or occur again, especially at regular intervals. Here are a few examples of how to use “recur” in a sentence:

• The same issue seems to recur every year.
• Her name would recur in his thoughts throughout the day.
• The theme of redemption would recur throughout the novel.

As you can see, “recur” is often used to describe something that happens repeatedly or at regular intervals. It’s important to note that “recur” is typically used in the present tense, although it can also be used in the past tense (“recurred”) or future tense (“will recur”).

How To Use “Reoccur” In A Sentence

“Reoccur” is also a verb that means to happen or occur again, but it is not as commonly used as “recur”. In fact, some people consider “reoccur” to be a less preferable alternative to “recur”. However, there are situations where “reoccur” may be more appropriate to use. Here are a few examples:

• The issue seems to reoccur every few months.
• He was worried that the problem would reoccur in the future.
• The same mistake had reoccurred several times before.

As you can see, “reoccur” is often used to describe something that happens again, but not necessarily at regular intervals. It’s important to note that “reoccur” is also typically used in the present tense, although it can be used in the past tense (“reoccurred”) or future tense (“will reoccur”).

More Examples Of Recur & Reoccur Used In Sentences

In this section, we will provide more examples of how to use “recur” and “reoccur” in sentences. These examples will help you to better understand the meaning of these two words and how to use them correctly.

Examples Of Using “Recur” In A Sentence

• The same problem seems to recur every year.
• The theme of revenge recurs throughout the play.
• The pain in my back has started to recur.
• Her name would recur in conversations about the company’s future.
• He fears that the nightmares will recur.
• The same issue has recurred several times.
• The pattern of behavior seems to recur in different situations.
• The company’s financial problems are likely to recur.
• His name recurred in the news after the scandal broke.
• History has shown that similar conflicts often recur.

Examples Of Using “Reoccur” In A Sentence

• The same problem seems to reoccur every year.
• The issue of safety reoccurs frequently in their discussions.
• The problem has reoccurred several times since the last fix.
• The same mistake reoccurred despite our efforts to prevent it.
• Her migraines reoccur every few weeks.
• The same question reoccurs in my mind every time I see him.
• The same issue reoccurs in different departments of the company.
• The problem of traffic congestion reoccurs every rush hour.
• The same grammatical errors reoccur in their writing.
• The same pattern of behavior reoccurs in their relationship.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to using the words “recur” and “reoccur,” many people make the mistake of using them interchangeably. However, these two words have distinct meanings and should not be used in the same way. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Using “Reoccur” Instead Of “Recur”

One of the most common mistakes people make is using “reoccur” instead of “recur.” While these two words may seem interchangeable, “reoccur” is actually incorrect. “Reoccur” is a misspelling of “recur” and should not be used in formal writing.

Using “Recur” To Mean “Occur Again”

Another common mistake is using “recur” to mean “occur again.” While “recur” does imply repetition, it specifically refers to something that happens repeatedly over a period of time. For example, a chronic illness may recur, but a thunderstorm cannot recur because it is a one-time event.

Using “Recur” Without Specifying The Time Frame

When using “recur,” it is important to specify the time frame in which the repetition occurs. For example, instead of saying “the problem keeps recurring,” specify how often it happens, such as “the problem recurs every few weeks.” This makes the sentence more precise and helps avoid confusion.

Tips To Avoid These Mistakes

• Double-check the spelling of “recur” and avoid using “reoccur.”
• Make sure you are using “recur” in the correct context, referring to something that happens repeatedly over time.
• Be specific about the time frame in which the repetition occurs when using “recur.”

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between the words “recur” and “reoccur,” context is key. The meaning of these two words is very similar, but there are subtle differences that can affect which one you should use in a particular situation.

For example, “recur” is often used to describe something that happens repeatedly over a period of time. This could be an event, a problem, or even a thought or feeling. Here are a few examples:

• The same issue has recurred several times over the past year.
• Her migraines tend to recur every few weeks.
• The theme of love and loss recurs throughout the novel.

On the other hand, “reoccur” is often used to describe something that happens again after a period of time when it has not been happening. Here are a few examples:

• The issue that had been resolved last year has reoccurred.
• After a few years of being dormant, the volcano has started to reoccur.
• His depression reoccurs every winter.

As you can see, the choice between “recur” and “reoccur” can depend on the context in which they are being used. If you are describing something that happens repeatedly over time, “recur” is likely the better choice. If you are describing something that has started happening again after a period of dormancy, “reoccur” is likely the better choice.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the rules for using “recur” and “reoccur” are generally straightforward, there are a few exceptions where they might not apply. Below are some explanations and examples for each case:

1. Technical Terminology

In technical terminology, “recur” and “reoccur” may not follow the usual rules. For example, in computer science, “recur” is often used as an abbreviation for “recursion,” which refers to a function that calls itself. In this context, “reoccur” is not used at all.

2. Regional Differences

There may be regional differences in the use of “recur” and “reoccur.” For example, in British English, “reoccur” is more commonly used than “recur.” However, in American English, “recur” is more commonly used.

3. Colloquial Language

In colloquial language, the rules for using “recur” and “reoccur” may not be as strict. People may use them interchangeably without realizing it. For example, someone might say, “That problem keeps reoccurring,” when they really mean “That problem keeps recurring.”

4. Personal Preference

Finally, personal preference may play a role in the use of “recur” and “reoccur.” Some people may simply prefer one word over the other, regardless of the rules or context. However, it is important to remember that using the correct word can help avoid confusion and ensure clear communication.

Practice Exercises

One of the best ways to improve your understanding and use of recur and reoccur is through practice exercises. Here are some exercises to help you master the usage of these words:

Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank

Choose the correct word, recur or reoccur, to fill in the blank in each sentence below:

1. The same problem seems to __________ every year.
2. The symptoms of the disease may __________ after treatment.
3. The issue will likely __________ in the future.
4. The computer glitch __________ every time I try to use that program.
5. He hopes the opportunity will __________ in the future.

Answer Key:

1. recur
2. reoccur
3. recur
4. reoccur
5. recur

Exercise 2: Sentence Completion

Complete each sentence below with the correct form of recur or reoccur:

1. Although the issue had been resolved, it __________ several times over the next few months.
2. She was worried that her illness would __________, but her doctor reassured her that it was unlikely.
3. The problem with the website seems to __________ every time there is a surge in traffic.
4. The company had to deal with a __________ of similar complaints from customers.
5. He was disappointed that the same mistake had __________ in his work for the third time.

Answer Key:

1. reoccurred
2. recur
3. recur
4. recurrence
5. recurred

By practicing with these exercises, you can improve your understanding and use of recur and reoccur in your writing and speech.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the difference between “recur” and “reoccur” may seem subtle, but it is important to understand the distinction in order to communicate effectively and accurately. Remember that “recur” implies a pattern or repetition, while “reoccur” simply means something happens again.

It is also important to note that language and grammar are constantly evolving, and it is always helpful to continue learning and improving our understanding of the English language.

Key Takeaways:

• “Recur” implies a pattern or repetition, while “reoccur” simply means something happens again.
• Proper use of these words can enhance communication and accuracy in writing.
• Continual learning and improvement of language use is important.

So, keep reading, keep learning, and keep improving your language skills!