This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

B2 verb #41 most common 15 min read

remarry

Top 41

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips remarry in 30 Seconds

Explanation remarry in your Level:

At the A1 level, the word 'remarry' might be a bit advanced, but we can understand it simply. It means to 'marry again.' If a person was married before, and then they marry a new person or the same person again, they 'remarry.' For example, 'My uncle is going to remarry.' This means he was married in the past, but now he is getting married again. It is a simple action. You can think of it as 're' (which means again) plus 'marry.' So, 'remarry' is 'marry again.' It is important to know that you only use this word if the person was married before. If it is their first time, you just say 'marry.' We use this word when we talk about families and friends. Sometimes people in stories remarry. It is a happy word for many people because it means they found a new partner to love. You don't need to worry about difficult grammar. Just remember: 'He remarried' or 'She wants to remarry.'

At the A2 level, we use 'remarry' to talk about family changes. It is a verb that describes someone getting married for a second time. This happens after a divorce (when a marriage ends) or after a spouse dies. For example, 'After her husband died, she waited many years to remarry.' In this sentence, 'remarry' shows a new start. You will often see this word in simple stories or news about famous people. It is useful because it is shorter than saying 'get married for the second time.' You can use it with 'to' like this: 'He decided to remarry.' Or you can use it with a person: 'He remarried his first wife.' Remember that you do not need to say 'remarry with.' Just say 'remarry someone.' It is a regular verb, so the past is 'remarried.' You might hear it when people talk about their parents or grandparents. It is a common part of life for many families around the world.

At the B1 level, 'remarry' becomes a useful word for discussing social trends and personal life choices. It specifically refers to the act of entering into a marriage after a previous one has legally ended. You might use it when discussing the complexities of modern families, such as 'blended families' where parents remarry and bring children from previous relationships together. For instance, 'Many people choose to remarry because they want companionship in their later years.' This level of usage involves understanding the context of the word—it implies a history of a previous marriage. You can use it in various tenses: 'She has remarried,' 'They are remarrying,' or 'He might remarry.' It is also common in discussions about laws or traditions, such as 'In some religions, it is difficult to remarry after a divorce.' Using 'remarry' instead of 'marry again' makes your English sound more natural and precise. It is a word often found in magazine articles, advice columns, and social studies.

At the B2 level, 'remarry' is used with an understanding of its legal and social implications. It is a standard term in formal and semi-formal English. You should be able to use it to discuss the consequences of a second marriage, such as changes in financial status, legal rights, or family dynamics. For example, 'The legal agreement stipulated that the alimony payments would cease if the recipient were to remarry.' This shows a more sophisticated use of the word in a conditional sentence. You also understand that 'remarry' can be used transitively or intransitively. At this level, you can distinguish between 'remarrying' (the act) and 'remarriage' (the noun/state). You might encounter this word in literature or more complex news reports, where the focus is on the emotional or social impact of the decision. For instance, 'The protagonist's decision to remarry was seen as a betrayal by her children.' This level of usage requires a grasp of the word's nuances and the ability to use it correctly in various professional and personal contexts.

At the C1 level, 'remarry' is used fluently and with precision in complex discussions. You understand the word's role in sociological data, legal frameworks, and psychological analysis. You can use it to explore themes of identity and social structure. For example, 'The increasing rate at which individuals remarry in middle age reflects a shift in societal expectations regarding lifelong monogamy.' Here, the word is part of a high-level academic or social observation. You are also aware of the subtle differences between 'remarrying' and related concepts like 'cohabitation' or 'civil unions.' You can use the word in idiomatic or metaphorical ways, though its primary use remains literal. In professional writing, such as a legal brief or a psychological report, you use 'remarry' to clearly define a change in a subject's status. You are also sensitive to the cultural nuances of the word, recognizing that the decision to remarry can be viewed very differently across various global cultures and religious traditions. Your vocabulary is rich enough to use 'remarry' alongside terms like 'nuptials,' 'matrimony,' and 'consort.'

At the C2 level, you have a complete mastery of the word 'remarry' and its place within the English language's vast tapestry. You can use it to engage in deep philosophical or sociological debates about the nature of marriage and the evolution of the family unit. You might analyze the word's usage in historical texts or legal precedents, understanding how the right to remarry has changed over centuries. For example, you could discuss the 'theological debates surrounding the right of the divorced to remarry within the Anglican Church.' You use the word with perfect grammatical accuracy and can manipulate it for stylistic effect in creative or persuasive writing. You understand the economic theories related to remarriage, such as 'marriage markets' and 'resource pooling.' Your use of the word is effortless, whether you are discussing a celebrity's third marriage or a complex legal statute regarding survivor benefits. You are also aware of the word's etymology and how it fits into the broader family of words related to 'marriage,' allowing you to use it with a high degree of linguistic sophistication and cultural awareness.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

remarry in 30 Seconds

The verb 'remarry' describes the act of marrying again after a previous marriage has ended due to divorce or the death of a spouse.
It can be used transitively (remarry someone) or intransitively (decide to remarry), and it is a regular verb in English grammar.
The word is common in legal, social, and personal contexts, often discussing family changes, financial implications, or second chances at love.
Common mistakes include using 'with' after the verb or using 'remarry again,' which is redundant since 'remarry' already implies repetition.

The verb remarry is a specific linguistic tool used to describe the act of entering into a marriage contract for a second, third, or subsequent time. It is not merely about the ceremony itself but represents a significant life transition that follows the dissolution of a previous union, whether that dissolution occurred through the legal process of divorce or the biological finality of death. In contemporary society, the term carries various connotations depending on the cultural and social context. For many, it signifies a second chance at happiness, the building of a blended family, and a commitment to a new partner despite previous hardships. Linguistically, the prefix 're-' indicates repetition, while 'marry' provides the core action. This word is frequently used in legal documents, sociological studies, and personal narratives to distinguish between a first-time bride or groom and someone who has navigated the complexities of matrimony before.

Legal Context: In a legal sense, to remarry means to satisfy the jurisdictional requirements for a new marriage license after proving that all prior marriages have been legally terminated. This often involves presenting a divorce decree or a death certificate to the local authorities.

After five years of being a widower, Arthur decided it was finally time to remarry and share his life with someone new.

The usage of 'remarry' also touches upon the concept of 'blended families' or 'step-families.' When individuals remarry, they often bring children from previous relationships into the new household, creating a complex web of social and emotional dynamics. Sociologists often study the rates at which people remarry to understand economic stability, as remarriage often leads to pooled resources and improved financial standing for the partners involved. However, the decision to remarry is rarely just financial; it is deeply rooted in the human desire for companionship and the social structure of the nuclear family. In literature and film, the act of remarrying is often used as a plot device to explore themes of redemption, the persistence of love, or the conflict between past obligations and future desires.

Social Nuance: Socially, the word can sometimes carry a heavy weight. In some traditional cultures, the decision to remarry might be met with scrutiny, particularly for widows. Conversely, in many modern Western societies, remarrying is seen as a standard and healthy progression of life after a relationship ends.

The celebrity couple shocked their fans when they announced their intention to remarry each other just two years after their high-profile divorce.

Furthermore, the word is often used in discussions regarding retirement benefits, pensions, and inheritance. In many jurisdictions, if a person chooses to remarry, they may lose certain benefits associated with their deceased or former spouse. This adds a layer of pragmatic consideration to the word's usage. People don't just 'remarry' for love; they 'remarry' within a framework of legal and financial consequences. The term is also common in religious contexts, where the permission to remarry may be subject to specific ecclesiastical laws or theological interpretations, such as the concept of annulment in the Catholic Church.

Many people who remarry find that their second marriage is more stable because they have learned from their previous experiences.

Demographic Trends: Statistical data often categorizes individuals by whether they are in their first marriage or have chosen to remarry. This helps researchers understand changing family structures and the longevity of modern relationships.

He was hesitant to remarry because he did not want to complicate the lives of his teenage children.

The law states that if you remarry before the age of fifty-five, you might forfeit your survivor's pension benefits.

Using the word remarry correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical flexibility. It can function as both a transitive verb, where it takes a direct object (the person being married), and an intransitive verb, where the action stands alone. For example, you can say 'She decided to remarry him' or simply 'She decided to remarry.' The latter is common when the focus is on the change in the subject's marital status rather than the identity of the new partner. It is important to note that 'remarry' implies a previous state of being married; you cannot 'remarry' if you have never been married before. This distinction is crucial for accurate communication in formal and informal settings alike.

Transitive Usage: When used transitively, 'remarry' is followed directly by the person. Example: 'He chose to remarry his high school sweetheart after they both became single again in their fifties.'

If you choose to remarry your ex-husband, you will need to apply for a new marriage license just like any other couple.

In terms of tense, 'remarry' follows standard English conjugation. In the past tense, it becomes 'remarried,' and in the continuous form, it is 'remarrying.' You might hear someone say, 'They are considering remarrying next spring,' which suggests a process of deliberation. The word is also frequently paired with modal verbs like 'should,' 'would,' or 'might' to express possibility or advice. For instance, a financial advisor might say, 'You should consider how your taxes will change if you remarry.' This highlights the word's utility in professional and advisory contexts. It is also worth noting that the word 'remarriage' is the noun form, often used to describe the state or the event itself.

Intransitive Usage: When the identity of the partner is already known or irrelevant to the point being made, the intransitive form is used. Example: 'After her husband passed away, she vowed she would never remarry.'

Statistics show that men are more likely to remarry quickly after a divorce than women are.

In more formal writing, such as legal briefs or academic papers, 'remarry' is used with precision to describe changes in civil status. For example, 'The petitioner's right to alimony shall terminate upon the date they remarry.' Here, the word acts as a clear marker for a legal event. In creative writing, the word can be used to evoke emotion or signify a character's growth. A character might 'remarry' to show they have finally moved on from a traumatic past. The word can also be used metaphorically, though this is less common, to describe a person returning to a former passion or career, as in 'remarrying his love for the arts,' though 'reconnecting' or 'returning to' is usually preferred in those cases.

Although they had been separated for a decade, they eventually decided to remarry in a small ceremony on the beach.

Passive Voice: While less common, the passive voice can be used: 'He was remarried in a private ceremony.' This focuses on the event happening to the subject.

It is quite common for people in this community to remarry within a few years of losing a spouse.

She was worried that if she were to remarry, her children might feel like she was replacing their father.

The word remarry is ubiquitous in various domains of life, ranging from the highly formal to the deeply personal. In the realm of news and entertainment, you will frequently encounter it in headlines regarding celebrities. When a famous actor or musician decides to 'remarry,' it often becomes a trending topic, sparking discussions about their past relationships and the longevity of their new union. For example, 'Pop Star Announces Plans to Remarry Former Partner' is a classic tabloid headline that uses the word to generate interest. In these contexts, the word often carries a sense of drama or public curiosity, as the public follows the romantic ups and downs of well-known figures.

Legal and Financial Advice: You will often hear this word in the offices of divorce attorneys or financial planners. They use it to discuss the implications of a new marriage on existing legal agreements, such as prenuptial agreements, child support, or alimony payments.

The lawyer explained that the alimony payments would stop immediately if his ex-wife were to remarry.

In social and family settings, 'remarry' is a common topic of conversation, though it can sometimes be a sensitive one. Family members might discuss whether a relative who has been widowed or divorced is 'ready to remarry.' In these situations, the word is used to explore emotional readiness and the impact on the family unit. You might hear a friend say, 'I'm so happy for Sarah; she's finally decided to remarry after all these years.' Here, the word is associated with healing and moving forward. Conversely, children of divorced parents might use the word with a sense of apprehension, as in 'I don't know how I'll feel if my dad decides to remarry.' This highlights the word's role in describing complex emotional landscapes.

Literature and Cinema: The theme of remarriage is a staple in romantic comedies and dramas. Characters often struggle with the decision to remarry, providing a rich source of conflict and resolution in storytelling.

In the final chapter of the novel, the protagonist realizes that her fear of the past shouldn't stop her from choosing to remarry.

Furthermore, the word appears in sociological and psychological research. Academics use 'remarry' to categorize study participants and analyze trends in family dynamics. For instance, a study might look at the 'probability to remarry' among different age groups or socioeconomic backgrounds. In this context, the word is a neutral, descriptive term used for data collection and analysis. You might read a sentence like, 'The study found that individuals with higher education levels are less likely to remarry within the first three years of a divorce.' This scientific usage strips away the emotional weight and focuses on the behavioral patterns of populations.

The documentary explored the lives of several women who chose to remarry later in life, highlighting the unique challenges they faced.

Religious Discourse: In religious settings, the word is often used when discussing the sanctity of marriage and the conditions under which a person may be permitted to marry again within the faith.

The couple sought guidance from their pastor to see if they were eligible to remarry in the church after their previous annulments.

It was a heartwarming moment when the elderly couple decided to remarry each other on their fiftieth anniversary, renewing their vows in front of their grandchildren.

One of the most frequent errors learners make with the word remarry is the unnecessary use of prepositions. Many people, influenced by their native languages or by the phrase 'get married with,' mistakenly say 'remarry with someone.' In English, 'remarry' is a direct verb. You 'remarry someone.' For example, 'He remarried his wife' is correct, whereas 'He remarried with his wife' is incorrect. This mistake is common because the concept of marriage often implies a partnership, leading speakers to want to use 'with' to connect the two parties. However, following the verb directly with the object is the standard and grammatically correct way to express this action.

Redundancy Issues: Another common mistake is the phrase 'remarry again.' Since the prefix 're-' already means 'again,' saying 'remarry again' is redundant. Unless a person is marrying for the third or fourth time, 'remarry' is sufficient to convey the idea of marrying once more.

Incorrect: She plans to remarry with her former husband next month.
Correct: She plans to remarry her former husband next month.

Confusion also arises between 'remarry' and 'marry again.' While they mean essentially the same thing, 'remarry' is more formal and concise. Using 'marry again' is perfectly acceptable in casual conversation, but in professional or academic writing, 'remarry' is the preferred term. Additionally, some speakers confuse the noun 'remarriage' with the verb 'remarry.' For instance, saying 'They are having a remarry' is incorrect; the correct sentence would be 'They are having a remarriage' or 'They are remarrying.' Understanding the parts of speech is vital for maintaining clarity in your communication.

Subject-Verb Agreement: When talking about a couple, ensure the verb agrees with the plural subject. 'The couple remarries' (if treated as a unit) or 'They remarry' (plural). In American English, 'The couple remarries' is common, while British English often uses 'The couple remarry.'

Incorrect: He is remarry his ex-wife.
Correct: He is remarrying his ex-wife.

Finally, there is the nuance of 'remarrying the same person' versus 'remarrying someone else.' Some people think 'remarry' only applies to marrying the same person again (re-marrying), but it actually applies to any subsequent marriage. If you marry a completely different person after a divorce, you are still 'remarrying.' Failing to recognize this broad application can lead to confusion in discussions about marital history. Always ensure the context makes it clear whether the subject is returning to a former spouse or starting fresh with a new partner, as the word 'remarry' itself does not specify this detail.

Incorrect: After the divorce, he decided to remarry to a new woman.
Correct: After the divorce, he decided to remarry a new woman.

Spelling Error: Be careful not to spell it with a hyphen ('re-marry') unless you are specifically emphasizing the act of marrying the same person again, though even then, 'remarry' is the standard spelling.

She was surprised to learn that her grandfather intended to remarry at the age of eighty-two.

The document stated that the widow would lose her housing allowance if she chose to remarry.

While remarry is the most direct and common term for entering a subsequent marriage, there are several alternatives and related phrases that can be used depending on the desired tone and context. Understanding these synonyms helps in enriching your vocabulary and allowing for more nuanced expression. The most common alternative is simply 'to marry again.' This phrase is more informal and is often used in everyday conversation. It is less clinical than 'remarry' and can feel more personal. For example, 'I think I might marry again someday' sounds a bit softer than 'I plan to remarry.'

Wed Again: The verb 'wed' is a more poetic or old-fashioned synonym for 'marry.' Thus, 'to wed again' or 're-wed' can be used in literary contexts or formal announcements to add a touch of elegance or tradition.

After many years apart, the star-crossed lovers decided to remarry in the same chapel where they first met.

Another related concept is 'entering a second marriage.' This uses the noun form and focuses on the state of the relationship rather than the act itself. This is common in sociological discussions or when talking about family structures. For instance, 'Children often face challenges when a parent enters a second marriage.' Similarly, the term 're-wed' is sometimes used, particularly in news headlines where space is limited, though it is less common in standard prose. In legal contexts, you might see the phrase 'contract a subsequent marriage,' which is highly formal and specific to the legal act of signing a marriage contract after a previous one has ended.

Tie the Knot Again: This is an idiomatic way to say 'marry again.' It is very informal and often used in a lighthearted or celebratory way. Example: 'They decided to tie the knot again after a brief separation.'

The couple chose to remarry in a quiet ceremony, avoiding the fanfare of their first wedding.

For those who are marrying the same person for a second time, the phrase 'renewing their vows' is often used if the couple never actually divorced. However, if they did divorce and are marrying each other again, 'remarry' is the correct term. Another term often associated with remarriage is 'blended family,' which describes the result of the remarriage when children are involved. While not a synonym for the verb, it is a key part of the vocabulary surrounding the topic. In some academic circles, the term 'serial monogamy' is used to describe the pattern of marrying, divorcing, and remarrying multiple times throughout a person's life.

He was hesitant to remarry because he valued his independence after the divorce.

Walk Down the Aisle Again: Another idiomatic expression, this focuses on the wedding ceremony itself. It is often used in a sentimental or romantic context.

The news that the former prime minister intended to remarry was met with a mix of surprise and support from the public.

Whether you choose to remarry or remain single is a deeply personal decision that depends on many factors.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

In medieval times, the rules for remarrying were extremely strict and often required complex religious dispensations, making the word much more legally and spiritually loaded than it is today.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˌriːˈmæri/

US /ˌriˈmɛri/

The primary stress is on the second syllable: re-MAR-ry.

Rhymes With

carry marry tarry parry wary hairy fairy dairy

Common Errors

Pronouncing 're-' as a short 'e' like 'rem-arry'.
Putting the stress on the first syllable: RE-marry.
Failing to pronounce the 'y' clearly at the end.
Confusing the pronunciation with 'memory'.
Mumbling the 'm' sound in the middle.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The word is easy to recognize due to the familiar 're-' prefix and 'marry' base.

Writing 3/5

Learners must remember not to use 'with' and to avoid the redundant 'again'.

Speaking 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward, though the stress must be on the correct syllable.

Listening 2/5

Easily understood in context, though it can be confused with 'marry' if the prefix is missed.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

marry marriage divorce spouse wife/husband

Learn Next

remarriage annulment blended family step-parent alimony

Advanced

nuptials matrimony consort bigamy monogamy

Grammar to Know

Prefix 're-' usage

Just as 'redo' means do again, 'remarry' means marry again.

Transitive vs. Intransitive Verbs

'He remarried her' (transitive) vs. 'He remarried' (intransitive).

Gerund as Subject

'Remarrying is a big decision' uses the verb as a noun.

Past Participle as Adjective

'The remarried couple' uses the past form to describe the noun.

Zero Preposition with 'Marry/Remarry'

Do not say 'remarry with someone'; use 'remarry someone'.

Examples by Level

My aunt wants to remarry next year.

Ma tante veut se remarier l'année prochaine.

Simple present tense with 'wants to'.

Will he remarry his old wife?

Va-t-il se remarier avec son ancienne femme ?

Future tense question with 'will'.

They decided to remarry in the summer.

Ils ont décidé de se remarier en été.

Past tense 'decided' followed by infinitive.

She does not want to remarry.

Elle ne veut pas se remarier.

Negative form with 'does not'.

Can people remarry after a divorce?

Les gens peuvent-ils se remarier après un divorce ?

Modal verb 'can' for possibility.

He is happy to remarry.

Il est heureux de se remarier.

Adjective 'happy' followed by infinitive.

My dad remarried last month.

Mon père s'est remarié le mois dernier.

Simple past tense 'remarried'.

I think they will remarry.

Je pense qu'ils vont se remarier.

Future tense with 'will'.

After the divorce, it took him three years to remarry.

Après le divorce, il lui a fallu trois ans pour se remarier.

Infinitive of purpose 'to remarry'.

She remarried a man she met at work.

Elle s'est remariée avec un homme qu'elle a rencontré au travail.

Transitive use with a direct object.

Is your mother planning to remarry soon?

Est-ce que ta mère prévoit de se remarier bientôt ?

Present continuous for future plans.

He remarried his first wife after ten years apart.

Il s'est remarié avec sa première femme après dix ans de séparation.

Past tense with a time duration.

Many widows choose not to remarry.

Beaucoup de veuves choisissent de ne pas se remarier.

Negative infinitive 'not to remarry'.

They are remarrying in a private ceremony.

Ils se remarieront lors d'une cérémonie privée.

Present continuous for a fixed arrangement.

It is common for people to remarry in this country.

Il est courant que les gens se remarier dans ce pays.

Impersonal construction 'It is common for...'

He told his children that he was going to remarry.

Il a dit à ses enfants qu'il allait se remarier.

Reported speech with 'was going to'.

If she were to remarry, she would lose her pension benefits.

Si elle devait se remarier, elle perdrait ses prestations de pension.

Second conditional for hypothetical situations.

The study explores why some people choose to remarry so quickly.

L'étude explore pourquoi certaines personnes choisissent de se remarier si rapidement.

Noun clause 'why some people choose to remarry'.

He wasn't sure if he was ready to remarry after such a difficult divorce.

Il n'était pas sûr d'être prêt à se remarier après un divorce aussi difficile.

Indirect question with 'if'.

They decided to remarry each other after realizing they were still in love.

Ils ont décidé de se remarier après avoir réalisé qu'ils étaient toujours amoureux.

Reflexive-like use 'each other' as the object.

The priest explained the church's rules for those who wish to remarry.

Le prêtre a expliqué les règles de l'église pour ceux qui souhaitent se remarier.

Relative clause 'who wish to remarry'.

Remarrying can be a complicated process when children are involved.

Se remarier peut être un processus compliqué lorsque des enfants sont impliqués.

Gerund 'Remarrying' as the subject.

She remarried into a very wealthy family.

Elle s'est remariée dans une famille très riche.

Phrasal-like use 'remarried into'.

He had no intention to remarry until he met Sarah.

Il n'avait aucune intention de se remarier jusqu'à ce qu'il rencontre Sarah.

Negative noun phrase followed by infinitive.

The celebrity couple's decision to remarry was the talk of the town.

La décision du couple de célébrités de se remarier a fait l'objet de toutes les conversations.

Infinitive as a complement to the noun 'decision'.

Sociologists have noted that men are statistically more likely to remarry than women.

Les sociologues ont noté que les hommes sont statistiquement plus susceptibles de se remarier que les femmes.

Comparative structure 'more likely to... than'.

Despite the risks, she was determined to remarry and start a new life.

Malgré les risques, elle était déterminée à se remarier et à commencer une nouvelle vie.

Prepositional phrase 'Despite the risks' followed by a clause.

The legal system makes it relatively easy to remarry once the divorce is final.

Le système juridique permet de se remarier relativement facilement une fois le divorce prononcé.

Dummy 'it' as an object in 'makes it easy to'.

He remarried his former spouse in a surprising turn of events.

Il s'est remarié avec son ancienne conjointe dans un revirement de situation surprenant.

Transitive use with 'former spouse' as the object.

The counselor helped them navigate the emotional challenges of remarrying.

Le conseiller les a aidés à surmonter les défis émotionnels du remariage.

Gerund 'remarrying' after the preposition 'of'.

She was hesitant to remarry, fearing it might upset her teenage daughters.

Elle hésitait à se remarier, craignant que cela ne contrarie ses filles adolescentes.

Participle clause 'fearing it might...' expressing reason.

The law requires you to wait at least six months before you can remarry.

La loi vous oblige à attendre au moins six mois avant de pouvoir vous remarier.

Verb 'requires' followed by object and infinitive.

The historical novel depicts a widow who must remarry to secure her family's estate.

Le roman historique dépeint une veuve qui doit se remarier pour assurer le domaine de sa famille.

Relative clause with modal 'must'.

In many jurisdictions, the right to remarry is considered a fundamental human right.

Dans de nombreuses juridictions, le droit de se remarier est considéré comme un droit humain fondamental.

Passive voice 'is considered'.

The financial implications of choosing to remarry can be profound, affecting everything from taxes to inheritance.

Les implications financières du choix de se remarier peuvent être profondes, affectant tout, des impôts à l'héritage.

Participial phrase 'affecting everything from...'.

He argued that the freedom to remarry is essential for personal fulfillment in the modern era.

Il a soutenu que la liberté de se remarier est essentielle à l'épanouissement personnel à l'ère moderne.

Noun clause 'that the freedom to remarry is essential'.

The church's refusal to allow him to remarry led to a significant theological dispute.

Le refus de l'église de lui permettre de se remarier a conduit à une dispute théologique importante.

Possessive noun 'church's' followed by 'refusal'.

She found herself remarrying the same man she had divorced twenty years earlier.

Elle s'est retrouvée à se remarier avec le même homme dont elle avait divorcé vingt ans plus tôt.

Verb 'found herself' followed by a gerund.

The documentary examines the cultural stigma that often prevents women from choosing to remarry.

Le documentaire examine le stigmate culturel qui empêche souvent les femmes de choisir de se remarier.

Verb 'prevents' followed by object and 'from' + gerund.

Remarrying late in life brings a unique set of challenges regarding estate planning.

Se remarier tard dans la vie apporte un ensemble unique de défis concernant la planification successorale.

Gerund phrase as the subject of the sentence.

The intricate legalities surrounding the decision to remarry often necessitate the involvement of specialized counsel.

Les subtilités juridiques entourant la décision de se remarier nécessitent souvent l'intervention d'un avocat spécialisé.

Complex subject with a participial phrase 'surrounding the decision'.

Whether an individual chooses to remarry is often contingent upon their socioeconomic status and cultural background.

Le fait qu'un individu choisisse ou non de se remarier dépend souvent de son statut socio-économique et de son origine culturelle.

Subject clause 'Whether an individual chooses to remarry'.

The shift in societal attitudes has made the act of remarrying a common, if not expected, life transition.

Le changement des attitudes sociétales a fait de l'acte de se remarier une transition de vie courante, sinon attendue.

Parenthetical 'if not expected' adding nuance.

Her philosophical treatise explores the existential implications of the vow to remarry after a profound loss.

Son traité philosophique explore les implications existentielles du vœu de se remarier après une perte profonde.

Abstract noun 'implications' followed by a prepositional phrase.

The tax code provides certain incentives for those who remarry, though these are often offset by other liabilities.

Le code des impôts prévoit certaines incitations pour ceux qui se remarier, bien que celles-ci soient souvent compensées par d'autres passifs.

Concessive clause starting with 'though'.

He posited that the psychological drive to remarry stems from an innate human need for structured companionship.

Il a postulé que la pulsion psychologique de se remarier provient d'un besoin humain inné de camaraderie structurée.

Verb 'posited' followed by a complex noun clause.

The protagonist's refusal to remarry serves as a poignant critique of the patriarchal structures of her time.

Le refus de la protagoniste de se remarier sert de critique poignante des structures patriarcales de son époque.

Noun 'refusal' followed by an infinitive phrase.

Remarrying within the same social circle can lead to complex interpersonal dynamics and potential conflicts of interest.

Se remarier au sein du même cercle social peut entraîner des dynamiques interpersonnelles complexes et des conflits d'intérêts potentiels.

Gerund phrase as the subject with a modal 'can'.

Common Collocations

decide to remarry

never remarry

remarry for love

remarry a former spouse

plan to remarry

choose to remarry

eligible to remarry

remarry quickly

hesitant to remarry

legally remarry

Common Phrases

remarry into money

— To marry someone wealthy for the second time, often implying a financial motive.

The rumors suggested she only remarried into money to save her business.

remarry for the children

— To enter a second marriage primarily to provide a stable home for one's children.

He felt he had to remarry for the children, even if he wasn't fully ready.

remarry in haste

— To get married again very quickly without much thought, often leading to regret.

They say you should not remarry in haste after a traumatic breakup.

ready to remarry

— Feeling emotionally and practically prepared to enter a new marriage.

After five years of being single, she finally felt ready to remarry.

free to remarry

— Having no legal or religious obstacles to entering a new marriage.

Now that the annulment is complete, he is free to remarry in the church.

refuse to remarry

— Making a firm decision not to enter into another marriage.

Despite many proposals, the queen refused to remarry.

remarry for companionship

— To marry again mainly to have someone to spend time with and share life.

Many elderly people remarry for companionship rather than romance.

remarry for convenience

— To marry again for practical reasons like taxes, housing, or legal status.

It was a marriage of convenience; they remarried to simplify their finances.

remarry in secret

— To get married again without telling friends, family, or the public.

The famous couple decided to remarry in secret to avoid the paparazzi.

remarry for a second chance

— To enter a new marriage with the hope of succeeding where a previous one failed.

He viewed his decision to remarry as a second chance at happiness.

Often Confused With

remarry vs marry

Marry is for the first time; remarry is for any time after the first.

remarry vs remarriage

Remarry is the verb (action); remarriage is the noun (event/state).

remarry vs re-wed

Re-wed is more formal or poetic and used less often than remarry.

Idioms & Expressions

"second time's a charm"

— The idea that a second attempt at something (like marriage) will be successful.

He's hoping the second time's a charm as he prepares to remarry.

informal

"hope over experience"

— A famous description of remarriage (by Samuel Johnson) as the triumph of hope over experience.

His decision to remarry for the fourth time was truly a case of hope over experience.

literary/humorous

"jump back into the fire"

— To return to a difficult or challenging situation (sometimes used jokingly about remarrying).

Are you sure you want to jump back into the fire and remarry so soon?

informal/slang

"take the plunge again"

— To decide to do something major or risky (like getting married) for a second time.

After a decade of bachelorhood, he finally decided to take the plunge again and remarry.

informal

"double down on love"

— To commit even more strongly to the idea of romance by marrying again.

By choosing to remarry, she is doubling down on love despite her past heartbreaks.

informal

"start a new chapter"

— To begin a new phase of life, often used when someone remarries.

Remarrying allowed him to start a new chapter and leave the past behind.

neutral

"mend a broken heart"

— To recover from emotional pain, often through a new relationship or remarriage.

He hoped that remarrying would finally help him mend a broken heart.

sentimental

"find one's soulmate again"

— The belief that one can find a perfect partner even after a previous marriage has ended.

She felt she had found her soulmate again and was eager to remarry.

romantic

"tie the knot once more"

— A variation of 'tie the knot,' specifically for a subsequent marriage.

They are planning to tie the knot once more in a small garden ceremony.

informal

"build a bridge to the future"

— To move forward from the past, often used in the context of remarrying and forming a new family.

Remarrying was her way of building a bridge to the future for herself and her kids.

metaphorical

Easily Confused

remarry vs remarry

People often add 'again' to it.

Remarry already means 'marry again.' Adding 'again' is redundant and unnecessary in good English.

Correct: He decided to remarry. Incorrect: He decided to remarry again.

remarry vs remarry

Confused with 'marry with'.

In English, you marry or remarry someone directly. You do not use the preposition 'with' after these verbs.

Correct: She remarried him. Incorrect: She remarried with him.

remarry vs remarry

Confused with 'renewing vows'.

Renewing vows is for people still married. Remarrying is for people whose marriage ended and are starting a new one.

They remarried after their divorce was final.

remarry vs remarry

Confused with 'cohabit'.

Cohabiting is living together without being married. Remarrying is a legal and formal commitment.

They chose to cohabit for years before they decided to remarry.

remarry vs remarry

Confused with 'reunite'.

Reuniting is just getting back together. Remarrying is specifically the legal act of getting married again.

After they reunited, they decided to remarry to make it official.

Sentence Patterns

Subject + want to + remarry.

I want to remarry.

Subject + remarried + Object.

He remarried his wife.

Subject + decided to + remarry + after + [Noun/Phrase].

They decided to remarry after the long holiday.

It is + [Adjective] + to + remarry + [Prepositional Phrase].

It is common to remarry in modern society.

The decision to + remarry + [Verb Phrase].

The decision to remarry changed her life forever.

Whether + Subject + remarry + depends on + [Complex Noun Phrase].

Whether he will remarry depends on his financial stability.

Subject + is + remarrying + [Time Expression].

She is remarrying next month.

Subject + might + remarry + if + [Condition].

He might remarry if he finds the right person.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

The word 'remarry' is frequently used in both spoken and written English, particularly in news, legal, and social contexts.

Common Mistakes

She remarried with her old friend. → She remarried her old friend.
The verb 'remarry' does not take the preposition 'with.' It is a transitive verb that takes a direct object.
He wants to remarry again next year. → He wants to remarry next year.
Adding 'again' is redundant because the 're-' in 'remarry' already means 'again.'
They are having a remarry. → They are having a remarriage.
'Remarry' is a verb, while 'remarriage' is the noun. You cannot 'have a remarry.'
He is REmarry his wife. → He is remarrying his wife.
You must use the correct verb form (present continuous) and the correct stress (on the second syllable).
She remarried to a doctor. → She remarried a doctor.
Similar to 'with,' the preposition 'to' is not used after 'remarry' when followed by the person.

Tips

No 'with' allowed

Always remember that 'remarry' is a direct verb. You remarry a person, you don't remarry 'with' them. This is one of the most common mistakes made by students, so practicing the direct object form is very helpful.

Conciseness is key

Using 'remarry' instead of 'get married again' makes your sentences shorter and more professional. It shows a higher level of English proficiency and is preferred in all types of formal writing.

Avoid redundancy

Don't say 'remarry again.' The 're-' prefix already means 'again.' It's a small detail, but avoiding this redundancy will make your English sound much more natural to native speakers.

Context matters

While 'remarry' is neutral, be aware that the topic can be sensitive. Use it carefully in personal conversations, especially if the previous marriage ended in a painful way like a death or a difficult divorce.

Regular verb forms

Remarry is a regular verb. This means you just add '-ed' for the past tense (remarried) and '-ing' for the continuous form (remarrying). It follows the standard rules for verbs ending in 'y'.

Legal precision

In legal contexts, 'remarry' is the only correct term to use. It clearly defines the change in status from a previous legal state to a new one, which is important for contracts and benefits.

Blended families

When you talk about someone remarrying, you are often also talking about 'blended families.' Learning these terms together will help you discuss modern family life more effectively.

Stress the second syllable

Make sure to put the emphasis on 'MAR' in 'remarry.' If you stress the first syllable, it might be harder for people to understand you quickly. Practice saying 're-MAR-ry' several times.

Spelling check

Always spell 'remarry' as one word. Some people try to put a hyphen (re-marry), but this is not standard. Keeping it as one word is the correct way to write it in modern English.

Sociological terms

In academic papers, you might see 'remarriage rates.' This is the noun form used to discuss how often people in a population choose to remarry. It's a useful term for data analysis.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'RE' as 'Repeat' and 'MARRY' as the action. So, RE-MARRY is to REpeat the MARRYing process.

Visual Association

Imagine a wedding ring being placed on a finger that already has a faint tan line from a previous ring.

Word Web

Wedding Divorce Spouse Second Chance Family Love Legal Partner

Challenge

Try to use 'remarry' in three different sentences: one about a celebrity, one about a historical figure, and one about a hypothetical situation.

Word Origin

The word 'remarry' is formed by adding the Latin-derived prefix 're-' (meaning 'again' or 'back') to the verb 'marry.' 'Marry' comes from the Old French 'marier,' which in turn originates from the Latin 'maritare,' meaning 'to provide with a husband or wife.'

Original meaning: The original sense was simply 'to marry again' or 'to repeat the act of matrimony.'

Indo-European (Latin branch through French).

Cultural Context

Be sensitive when discussing remarriage with people who have lost a spouse, as the topic can be emotionally charged.

In the UK and US, remarriage is very common, with a significant percentage of all marriages being a remarriage for at least one partner.

Elizabeth Taylor, who famously remarried Richard Burton. The movie 'The Parent Trap,' where children try to get their divorced parents to remarry. King Henry VIII, who sought to remarry multiple times, changing the course of English history.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Family Discussions

Is she going to remarry?
He's too young to remarry.
They want to remarry for the kids.
I'm happy they decided to remarry.

Legal Advice

If you remarry, the payments stop.
You are free to remarry now.
The right to remarry is protected.
Check the laws before you remarry.

Celebrity News

The star plans to remarry.
They remarried in a secret ceremony.
Will they remarry their ex?
The couple is remarrying today.

Therapy/Counseling

Are you ready to remarry?
Fear of remarrying is common.
Remarrying affects the whole family.
Discuss your goals before you remarry.

Religious Settings

Can I remarry in the church?
The faith allows you to remarry.
Seeking permission to remarry.
They remarried after an annulment.

Conversation Starters

"Do you think it's a good idea for people to remarry their former spouses?"

"How long should someone wait after a divorce before they decide to remarry?"

"In your culture, is it common for older people to remarry for companionship?"

"What are some of the biggest challenges couples face when they choose to remarry?"

"Do you believe that remarrying is easier or harder than getting married for the first time?"

Journal Prompts

Reflect on a story or movie where a character decided to remarry. What were their motivations?

Write about the pros and cons of remarrying later in life versus remarrying while young.

How would you feel if a close family member decided to remarry? Explain your thoughts.

Imagine you are a lawyer. Write a letter to a client explaining why they are now free to remarry.

Describe a perfect small ceremony for a couple who has decided to remarry after many years.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Technically, you should avoid it. 'Remarry' already contains the meaning of 'again' because of the 're-' prefix. Saying 'remarry again' is like saying 'marry again again.' It is better to just say 'remarry' or 'marry again.' For example, 'He plans to remarry next year' is perfectly clear.

Yes, 'remarry' is considered more formal than 'marry again.' It is the standard term used in legal documents, news reports, and academic writing. However, it is also very common in everyday speech, so you can use it in almost any situation without sounding too stiff.

No, you should not use 'with.' The verb 'remarry' is transitive, meaning it takes a direct object. You 'remarry someone.' For example, 'She remarried her ex-husband' is correct. Using 'with' is a common mistake for English learners.

The noun form is 'remarriage.' You use it to talk about the event or the state of being married again. For example, 'Their remarriage was a happy occasion' or 'The study looks at the success rates of remarriages.'

Yes, you can. If you were married, got divorced, and then marry that same person again, you are remarrying them. The word applies whether the new spouse is a different person or the same person from a previous marriage.

Yes, 'remarried' can function as an adjective to describe someone's current status. For example, 'He is a remarried man with three stepchildren.' It tells us that he has been married before and is now married again.

'Remarry' is the standard, most common term. 'Re-wed' is much more formal, poetic, or used in short news headlines. You will almost always be correct using 'remarry,' while 're-wed' might sound a bit unusual in casual conversation.

No, you cannot. 'Remarry' specifically requires that you were legally married at least once before. If you were only engaged but never married, your first marriage is just a 'marriage,' not a 'remarriage.'

It is pronounced /ˌriːˈmæri/. The stress is on the second syllable: re-MAR-ry. The 're' sounds like 'ree' and 'marry' sounds like the standard word for a wedding ceremony.

Yes, it is very common. Statistics show that a large percentage of people who divorce eventually choose to remarry. It is a normal part of the social fabric in countries like the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.