Definition of Retrieve
Quick Meaning of Retrieve
To get something back that you lost or that was stored somewhere. To bring it back to you.
Detailed Definition of Retrieve
To get back or recover something that was lost, stored, or previously given away.
How to Pronounce Retrieve
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the second syllable: ri-TREEV. The 'ie' at the end sounds like 'eve' in 'believe'.
Watch out: Some learners stress the first syllable (RE-treev) instead of the second. Say: ruh-TREEV.
Origin and Etymology of Retrieve
From Old French 'retrover' (to find again). 'Retro-' (back) + 'trouver' (to find). Entered English in 15th century.
How to Use Retrieve in a Sentence
Each example shows “retrieve” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“She retrieved her car keys from the lost and found.”
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“The database can retrieve millions of records in seconds.”
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“Archaeologists retrieved ancient artifacts from the excavation site.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Retrieve
Common Synonyms for Retrieve
Smart Synonyms for Retrieve — When to Use Each
- recover
- Getting something back after loss or difficulty
- fetch
- Informal; going to get something and bringing it
- retrieve
- Emphasizes deliberate action to recover lost or stored
Common Collocations with Retrieve
These phrases pair with “retrieve” in everyday English:
- retrieve data
- retrieve information
- retrieve documents
- retrieve files
- retrieve from storage
Common Mistakes When Using Retrieve
Even fluent speakers slip up with “retrieve”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: I need to retrieve my passport to the embassy.
- ✓ Correct: I need to retrieve my passport. / I need to bring my passport to the embassy.
- Why: 'Retrieve' means to get something back; it doesn't mean to take it somewhere. Don't use 'to' with a destination.
- ✗ Wrong: The dog retrieved the stick and give it to me.
- ✓ Correct: The dog retrieved the stick and gave it to me.
- Why: Use past tense 'gave' to match 'retrieved'. Both verbs should be in the same tense.
- ✗ Wrong: Can you retrieve me the information?
- ✓ Correct: Can you retrieve the information for me?
- Why: 'Retrieve' takes the object (information) not the person. Say 'for me' not 'me' as indirect object here.
Other Forms of Retrieve
- Noun: retrieval
- Verb: retrieve
- Adjective: retrievable
Frequently Asked Questions About Retrieve
What is the meaning of "Retrieve"?
To get something back that you lost or that was stored somewhere. To bring it back to you.
How do you pronounce "Retrieve"?
The IPA is /rɪˈtriːv/. Stress the second syllable: ri-TREEV. The 'ie' at the end sounds like 'eve' in 'believe'.
What part of speech is "Retrieve"?
"Retrieve" is a verb at B2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Retrieve"?
Common synonyms include recover, fetch, get back.
How do you use "Retrieve" in a sentence?
For example: "She retrieved her car keys from the lost and found."