reset

Meanings

1. 1verbtransitive

   To change a device, machine, or system back to its original settings or starting state.

   Grammar: Takes an object: reset the router.

   Patterns

   • reset something
   • reset something to something

   If the screen freezes, reset the tablet by holding the power button.

   She reset the alarm clock to 6 a.m. after the power cut.

   You can reset the password from the settings menu.

2. 2verbtransitive

   To change something back to an earlier or standard position, level, or condition.

   Grammar: Often used with to: reset the dial to zero.

   Patterns

   • reset something to something
   • reset something

   The technician reset the gauge to zero before the test.

   After the error, the team reset the schedule to its original dates.

   He reset his expectations after the first interview.

3. 3verbtransitive or intransitivefigurative

   To make a fresh start in a relationship, plan, or situation.

   Grammar: Can be used with or without an object: They reset their friendship. / We need to reset.

   Patterns

   • reset a relationship
   • reset the clock on something
   • reset

   The couple decided to reset their relationship after a long talk.

   The new manager wants to reset the way the team works together.

   Sometimes you just need to reset and begin again.

4. 4nouncountable

   An act of returning something to its original state or position.

   Grammar: Countable: a reset, two resets.

   Patterns

   • a reset
   • do a reset
   • a reset of something

   The system needs a full reset before it will work again.

   The company announced a reset of its marketing strategy.

   Press the button for a quick reset.

Word forms

Common combinations

reset the password

I had to reset the password because I forgot it.

reset the clock

The storm reset the clock on the building project.

reset to factory settings

If nothing works, reset the phone to factory settings.

a fresh reset

The break gave everyone a fresh reset.

Synonyms and how they differ

restart

Restart means to start again, often by turning off and on; reset focuses on returning to original settings.

clear

Clear means to remove data or obstacles; reset implies returning to a default state, not just emptying.

revert

Revert is formal and means to go back to a previous state; reset is more active and deliberate.

Word family

resettable adjective

Able to be reset.

reset noun

An act of resetting.

Commonly confused: reset or re-set?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “reset”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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