reconfigure: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, Technical
Quick answer
What does “reconfigure” mean?
to change the arrangement or structure of something, especially a system or device.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
to change the arrangement or structure of something, especially a system or device.
To alter the configuration, organization, or setup to serve a new purpose, adapt to new circumstances, or improve functionality.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling is consistent. Possibly slightly higher frequency in US tech contexts.
Connotations
Both share connotations of systematic, planned change, often for optimisation.
Frequency
Common in both technical and business English, with comparable frequency across varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “reconfigure” in a Sentence
reconfigure [OBJECT] (to do something)reconfigure [OBJECT] for [PURPOSE]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “reconfigure” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- We'll reconfigure the meeting schedule to prioritise the client visit.
- IT is reconfiguring the network to improve bandwidth.
American English
- They had to reconfigure the software to meet the new regulations.
- Let's reconfigure the team roles for this project.
adverb
British English
- [No standard adverb form 'reconfigurably' in use.]
- [Not applicable.]
American English
- [No standard adverb form 'reconfigurably' in use.]
- [Not applicable.]
adjective
British English
- [The adjective form 'reconfigured' is common, e.g., 'a reconfigured layout'.]
- [Not applicable for base form 'reconfigure'.]
American English
- [The adjective form 'reconfigured' is common, e.g., 'the reconfigured dashboard'.]
- [Not applicable for base form 'reconfigure'.]
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
We need to reconfigure our supply chain to reduce costs.
Academic
The study argues that globalisation has reconfigured traditional power structures.
Everyday
Let's reconfigure the living room furniture for the party.
Technical
The engineer had to reconfigure the server's firewall settings.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “reconfigure”
- Misspelling as 'reconfigurate' (incorrect).
- Using it for minor changes where 'adjust' or 'modify' is sufficient.
- Incorrect stress placement: stressing the first syllable 'RE-configure' instead of 're-con-FIG-ure'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'Reconfigure' implies a more fundamental, often systematic or structural change to improve function, common in tech/business. 'Rearrange' is more general, often for physical objects or order, like furniture or a list.
Yes, but usually for groups/teams (e.g., 'reconfigure the department'), not individuals. It focuses on their roles, structure, or organisation.
Yes, 'reconfiguration' is the standard noun (e.g., 'the reconfiguration of the system').
No, it's heavily associated with tech but applies to any system, space, or organisation (e.g., business strategy, room layout).
to change the arrangement or structure of something, especially a system or device.
Reconfigure is usually formal, technical in register.
Reconfigure: in British English it is pronounced /ˌriːkənˈfɪɡə(r)/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌriːkənˈfɪɡjər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms with 'reconfigure']”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'RE-CONFIGURE' — to CONFIGURE (set up) something again (RE-). Like re-drawing the blueprint of a system.
Conceptual Metaphor
A SYSTEM IS A PHYSICAL SHAPE (that can be moulded or reshaped).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'reconfigure' LEAST likely to be used?