recurrent
- 01 C1 Advanced
happening many times or happening again and again.
occurring repeatedly or periodically; frequently used to describe problems, themes, or symptoms.
Simple“The company has struggled with recurrent technical problems all year.”
In context“The novelist explores the recurrent theme of exile throughout her work, suggesting that displacement is a fundamental part of the modern experience.”
UsageOften used to describe negative situations like illnesses, debts, or errors.
- 02 C2 Proficiency
describes a nerve or blood vessel that turns back and runs in the opposite direction.
describing a nerve, artery, or vein that curves back toward its origin.
Simple“The doctor explained that the recurrent nerve controls the voice box.”
In context“During the procedure, the surgeon must be careful to identify the recurrent laryngeal nerve to avoid permanent damage to the patient's vocal cords.”
UsageAlmost exclusively used in anatomical or botanical contexts.
Synonymsreflexed
“The transboundary environmental problem has become a recurrent phenomenon in the region.”
From Latin recurrens, present participle of recurrere. Morphologically recur + -ent.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.