reframe

USAGE SUMMARY

The word “reframe” is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to present an idea or situation in a new context or perspective. For example: "My boss challenged me to reframe the problem in order to find a creative solution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Perhaps we need to reframe the argument over the status of obesity, so often couched in moral terms, as a practical question.

The Guardian - Opinion

This hasn't discouraged Iona and their fellow no campaigners from attempting to emotively and dishonestly reframe the discussion, however.

The Guardian

"We want to reframe how cereal is seen.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Along with other no campaigners, their main argument has been a rather cynical attempt to reframe the referendum as about children rather than marriage equality, a misconception the referendum commissioner has taken pains to dismantle.

The Guardian

That could prompt him to reframe his question: how many planets will it take to satisfy China's needs if it ever achieves profligate America's affluence?

The Economist

But Mr Obama needs to reframe the election so that it is less about him and more about the issues.

The Economist

The professor also introduced us to the strategies and tactics to use if we are the weaker party, most importantly how to reframe the discussion so the other side better understands our situation.

The Economist

In July 2010 she signed and attended two executions in a bid, she said, to start a public discussion that quickly petered out.With the odds so highly stacked against them, some critics have tried to reframe the debate on the death penalty using soft power.

The Economist

The shot dissolves imperceptibly into one in which the camera pans up to reframe the couple picnicking in an extreme long shot.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Second, information can draw attention to new issues or reframe existing issues in ways that resonate with a greater audience; this often involves the creative use of symbols, performances, and narratives.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It was published with a preface by the Argentine political theorist Ernesto Laclau, who suggested that the nonlinear structure of the text is faithful to the "retroactive" effect in Lacanian psychoanalysis, in which later events reframe and transform one's understanding of what went before.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "reframe", ensure the new perspective you're offering is clearly articulated and provides added value or insight. Don't just reframe for the sake of it; have a purpose.

Common error

Avoid using "reframe" as a buzzword without actually providing a meaningful shift in perspective. Ensure that the reframing offers a tangible benefit, such as a new solution or a deeper understanding.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "reframe" is as a transitive verb. It signifies the act of changing the way something is presented or considered. As Ludwig AI confirms, "reframe" is correct and suggests presenting a situation in a new context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Encyclopedias

11%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "reframe" is a versatile verb used to describe the act of changing the way something is presented or understood. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a grammatically sound and practical term for introducing a new perspective. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, "reframe" serves to influence perception and encourage alternative interpretations. When employing "reframe", ensure that the new frame offers tangible value and isn't merely a superficial alteration. Alternatives include terms like "recast", "reinterpret", and "rethink", depending on the desired nuance. The term is widely used across many contexts, showcasing its acceptance and correct usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reframe the narrative

Specifically targets altering the storyline or account of events.

alter the framing

Implies modifying the way an issue or situation is presented to influence perception.

reinterpret

Suggests finding a new meaning or understanding of something based on different perspectives.

reconceptualize

Involves changing the entire conceptual framework or understanding of something.

recast

Implies altering the form or character of something, like reshaping a story or role.

re-envision

Suggests imagining something in a new way, often with a focus on future possibilities.

rethink

Emphasizes the process of reconsidering and potentially changing one's views.

re-evaluate

Focuses on reassessing the value or importance of something.

change perspective

Highlights shifting the viewpoint or angle from which something is considered.

reword

Focuses on changing the phrasing or wording of something to alter its impact.

FAQs

How can I use "reframe" in a sentence?

You can use "reframe" to suggest presenting something in a new light, like "Let's "reframe the problem" to find a better solution".

What's a good alternative to the word "reframe"?

Alternatives include "recast", "reinterpret", or "rethink", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to "reframe" or "redefine" a situation?

"Reframe" suggests changing the way something is viewed, while "redefine" implies changing the very definition of something. Use "reframe" when you want to alter perspective and "redefine" when you want to change the fundamental meaning.

When is it appropriate to "reframe the narrative"?

It's appropriate to "reframe the narrative" when the current understanding of events is incomplete, biased, or leading to undesirable outcomes. For example, you might "reframe the narrative" around a historical event to highlight previously overlooked perspectives.