recreational
rek-ree-AY-shun-ul
/ˌrɛkriˈeɪʃənəl/
Relating to or denoting activity done for enjoyment when one is not working.
Implies a low-stakes, fun environment rather than a serious or professional one.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'recreare', meaning 'to create again' or 'to refresh'. The idea is that leisure time 're-creates' your energy and spirit after work has worn you down.
Word relationships
- leisurely: Focuses on the slow, unhurried pace of the activity.
- amateur: Amateur can still be very serious and competitive; recreational is almost always for fun.
- professional: Done as a job.
- occupational: Relating to a job or profession.
Commonly confused with
- competitive: Competitive sports focus on winning; recreational sports focus on the experience.
Word family
- recreation (noun): Activity done for enjoyment.
- recreate (verb): To enjoy oneself through leisure.
Collocations
- recreational use
- recreational drug
- recreational activities
Example sentences
- "The city invested in new recreational facilities, including a swimming pool and tennis courts." Community facilities.
- "He plays recreational league softball every Tuesday night just to stay active." Leisure activities.
Memory hook
RECREATION is like RE-CREATING your energy. Refreshing for fun.
When not to use
Don't use for high-stakes professional training.
Fun facts
- In the 14th century, 'recreation' referred to the recovery of a person from illness.
Related words
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