ENGLISH
REFERENCE

reciting

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ɹiˈsaɪtɪŋ// UK //ɹɪsˈaɪtɪŋ// recit·ing

v. saying a poem, story, or list of facts out loud from memory. You do this when you have learned something by heart and want to share it with others.

v. repeating a text, poem, or set of facts aloud from memory. Present participle form; describes the act of oral delivery without the use of written notes.


SIMPLE

She is reciting a poem for the class.

CONTEXTUAL

The young student stood at the front of the room, nervously reciting the lines he had practiced all week.

COMPLEX

While reciting the ancient epic, the performer used rhythmic pauses to emphasize the dramatic tension of the hero's journey.

Synonyms
Usage

Often takes a direct object (the text being spoken) or can be used intransitively.

© 2026 English Reference