reconnoitre
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˌrɛkəˈnɔɪtə/
KK: /rɪˈkɒnəˌtɔɪr/
noun
Definition
A process of exploring or surveying an area to gather information, often used in military contexts.
Example
The soldiers conducted a reconnoitre to assess the enemy's position before launching an attack.
Conversation
Did you hear about their last reconnoitre of the area?
Yeah, I heard it went really well and they found some interesting spots.
I wonder what they discovered during that reconnoitre.
I hope they share some photos — it sounds exciting!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
survey
scouting
inspection
Antonyms
neglect
overlook
ignore
verb
Definition
To explore or survey an area to gather information, especially for military purposes.
Example
The soldiers were sent to reconnoitre the enemy's position before launching an attack.
Tense Forms
Past: reconnoitred
Past Participle: reconnoitred
Conversation
Have you ever thought about how we could reconnoitre that new hiking trail?
Yeah, I was just thinking it might be a good idea to scout it out first.
We should definitely reconnoitre before we go, just to be safe.
Root Explanation
**Reconnoitre** → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "connoitre" (from Old French *connoître*, meaning to know). The word means to know again or to survey an area, typically for military purposes.
Memory Tip
Think of 'knowing again' — 're-' means again, and 'connoître' means to know. This helps you remember that reconnoitre involves surveying or getting to know an area again.
Visually Confused Words
unreconnoitered
rencontre
economite