Reiterate means to repeat something for emphasis or clarity, especially in more formal contexts.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Say or do something again, for emphasis.
- Common in formal speech and writing.
- Ensures a point is understood or remembered.
**Overview**
The word 'reiterate' comes from the Latin word 'iterare', meaning 'to repeat'. It signifies the act of saying something again, usually to reinforce a message, clarify a point, or emphasize its importance. It's a more formal way of saying 'repeat' or 'say again'.
**Usage Patterns**
'Reiterate' is typically used when someone wants to make sure their audience has grasped a particular piece of information. It can be used in both spoken and written communication. Common structures include 'I want to reiterate that...', 'Let me reiterate my point about...', or 'He reiterated his commitment to...'. It often implies that the speaker believes the point is significant enough to warrant repetition.
**Common Contexts**
You'll often hear 'reiterate' in formal settings like business meetings, political speeches, academic lectures, or legal proceedings. For example, a manager might reiterate the company's goals at the start of a new project, or a politician might reiterate their stance on a particular issue. In everyday conversation, it might be used when someone feels they haven't been understood or wants to strongly emphasize something.
**Similar Words Comparison**
While 'repeat' is a general term for saying something again, 'reiterate' often carries a stronger sense of purpose, usually for emphasis or clarification. 'Restate' is very similar and means to state again, often in a clearer or more concise way. 'Reaffirm' means to confirm or state something again, often to show continued support or belief. 'Reiterate' focuses more on the act of saying it again, while 'reaffirm' emphasizes the confirmation of a belief or commitment.
Examples
I want to reiterate my thanks for your hard work on this project.
everydayQuiero reiterar mi agradecimiento por tu arduo trabajo en este proyecto.
The spokesperson reiterated the government's commitment to fiscal responsibility.
formalEl portavoz reiteró el compromiso del gobierno con la responsabilidad fiscal.
Look, I'm just going to reiterate: don't touch that button.
informalMira, solo voy a repetirlo: no toques ese botón.
The study reiterates the importance of early childhood education for long-term cognitive development.
academicEl estudio reitera la importancia de la educación infantil temprana para el desarrollo cognitivo a largo plazo.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
Let me reiterate
Permítame reiterar
I need to reiterate
Necesito reiterar
reiterate my position
reiterar mi posición
Often Confused With
'Repeat' is a more general term for saying or doing something again. 'Reiterate' specifically implies saying something again for emphasis or clarification, often after it has already been stated.
'Restate' means to state something again, often in a different or clearer way. 'Reiterate' means to say the exact same thing again, usually for emphasis.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
'Reiterate' is a verb, typically used in the present tense or past tense. It is often followed by 'that' introducing a clause, or by a noun phrase indicating what is being repeated. It carries a more formal tone than 'repeat'.
Common Mistakes
Avoid using 'reiterate' when you are simply saying something for the first time or adding new information. Ensure you are actually repeating a point that has already been made. Also, be mindful of its formal connotation; it might sound overly formal in very casual settings.
Tips
Emphasize Key Points Clearly
Use 'reiterate' when you want to make sure a crucial piece of information is not missed. It signals importance to your audience.
Avoid Overuse
While useful, overusing 'reiterate' can make your speech or writing sound repetitive and less engaging. Use it strategically.
Formal Communication Norms
In many cultures, explicitly reiterating important points is a sign of thoroughness and respect for the audience's understanding in formal settings.
Word Origin
The word 'reiterate' originates from the Latin 'iterare', meaning 'to repeat'. It entered English in the early 17th century, carrying the same core meaning of repetition.
Cultural Context
In professional and academic environments, reiterating key points is often valued as a way to ensure clarity and reinforce important messages. It can signal diligence and a focus on the core issues being discussed.
Memory Tip
Think of 're-' as 'again' and 'iterate' sounding like 'later'. So, you're saying something again, maybe 'later' in the conversation or presentation, to make sure it's heard.
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsYes, 'reiterate' is generally considered a more formal word than 'repeat'. It's often used in professional, academic, or public speaking situations.
Use 'reiterate' when you want to emphasize a point or ensure it's clearly understood, especially when the information is important or has perhaps been previously overlooked.
Yes, you can. For example, 'To reiterate, the deadline is Friday.' This is common when you want to be absolutely sure the listener has heard and understood.
No, reiterating means repeating the same information. If you were adding new details, you would be explaining further, not just reiterating.
Test Yourself
The CEO wanted to ______ that customer satisfaction remains our top priority.
The sentence implies repeating a previously stated priority for emphasis, making 'reiterate' the most suitable choice.
Which sentence best demonstrates the meaning of 'reiterate'?
This sentence shows someone repeating key information (main points) at the end of a presentation, which is a common and appropriate use of 'reiterate' for emphasis.
Build a sentence using: 'need', 'to', 'I', 'reiterate', 'that', 'safety', 'is', 'paramount'.
This sentence structure correctly places 'reiterate' as the verb and 'that safety is paramount' as the object, emphasizing the importance of safety.
Score: /3
Summary
Reiterate means to repeat something for emphasis or clarity, especially in more formal contexts.
- Say or do something again, for emphasis.
- Common in formal speech and writing.
- Ensures a point is understood or remembered.
Emphasize Key Points Clearly
Use 'reiterate' when you want to make sure a crucial piece of information is not missed. It signals importance to your audience.
Avoid Overuse
While useful, overusing 'reiterate' can make your speech or writing sound repetitive and less engaging. Use it strategically.
Formal Communication Norms
In many cultures, explicitly reiterating important points is a sign of thoroughness and respect for the audience's understanding in formal settings.
Examples
4 of 4I want to reiterate my thanks for your hard work on this project.
Quiero reiterar mi agradecimiento por tu arduo trabajo en este proyecto.
The spokesperson reiterated the government's commitment to fiscal responsibility.
El portavoz reiteró el compromiso del gobierno con la responsabilidad fiscal.
Look, I'm just going to reiterate: don't touch that button.
Mira, solo voy a repetirlo: no toques ese botón.
The study reiterates the importance of early childhood education for long-term cognitive development.
El estudio reitera la importancia de la educación infantil temprana para el desarrollo cognitivo a largo plazo.
