Understanding the Distinction Between Recur and Reoccur

Difference Between “Recur” and “Reoccur”

Many people mix up the words “recur” and “reoccur.” They both talk about something happening again, but there are some small differences. Let’s look at each word and see how they are different.

History

The word “recur” comes from the Latin word “recurrere,” which means “to run back.” It has been used since old times to talk about things that happen over and over in a cycle.

The word “reoccur” is more modern and comes from the prefix “re-” (meaning “again”) and the word “occur,” which means “to happen.” It simply means to happen again.

How to Use Them

Recur: Use “recur” when something happens over and over in a pattern or cycle. It often suggests regularity or repeat without needing to be planned.

• The headaches recur every week.
• I hope this problem does not recur.
• Rainy days often recur in April.
• The doctor said my symptoms might recur.
• Dreams can recur when we sleep.

Reoccur: Use “reoccur” when something happens again, but not necessarily in a pattern or on a regular schedule. It is often used more generally.

• The concert reoccurred after a year.
• This error might reoccur if not fixed.
• The fireworks show reoccurred on New Year’s Eve.
• He was upset when the issue reoccurred.
• This surprise event could reoccur next month.

Trick to Remember the Difference

The word “recur” sounds a bit like “run,” and since things that recur tend to “run” in cycles, you can remember it happens in a pattern. “Reoccur” has the word “occur” in it, which can remind you that it just means to happen again, without the idea of a cycle.

Summary

In summary, “recur” is used when something happens again in a pattern or cycle, often regularly. “Reoccur” is used for things that happen again but not in any regular cycle. Remember “recur” and “run” start the same way to help you remember the cyclic nature of “recur.”