C1verb2K

Retrieve

UK /["/rɪˈtriːv/","/rɪˈtriːvz/","/rɪˈtriːvd/","/rɪˈtriːvɪŋ/"]/US /["/rɪˈtriːv/","/rɪˈtriːvz/","/rɪˈtriːvd/","/rɪˈtriːvɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to bring or get something back, especially from a place where it should not be

In simple words: To get something back that was lost or kept away.

Examples

  • She bent to retrieve her comb from the floor.
  • The dog retrieved the ball from the water.
  • The police have managed to retrieve some of the stolen money.
  • to retrieve information from the database
  • The program allows you to retrieve items quickly by searching under a keyword.
  • You can only **retrieve the situation** by apologizing.
  • Employers are anxious to retrieve the investment they have made in training their employees.

Usage notes

Commonly used in formal contexts, especially in technology and data discussions. Less appropriate in casual conversation unless discussing physical retrieval.

Grammar pattern

retrieve + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 're-treasure' — picture finding a lost treasure.

Collocations

  • retrieve data
  • retrieve information
  • retrieve a memory
  • retrieve a document

Synonyms

  • recover

Antonyms

  • discard
  • lose

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'receipt' — they have different meanings.
  • Using 'retrieve' with inanimate objects, when it’s often used with information or data.
  • Omitting the object; 'retrieve' must be followed by what is being retrieved.