Recant

usgb/rɪˈkænt/
verb

To publicly say that you no longer have a belief or view that you once expressed.

After a thorough investigation, he recanted his confession.
Visual representation of "recant" - To publicly say that you no longer have a belief or view that you once expressed.

Often appears as...

  • recant a statement
  • recant a belief

Usage tips

Formal

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "recant"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Public Admission

Using 'recant' usually means admitting publicly that a previous statement was wrong.

Illustration for Public Admission
The politician had to recant his erroneous remarks on live television.
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Change of Heart

'Recant' is used when someone no longer agrees with what they previously said or believed.

Illustration for Change of Heart
The author recanted her previous stance on the issue in her new book.
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Seriousness Implied

The act of recanting is serious and implies a firm and sometimes formal withdrawal.

Illustration for Seriousness Implied
Under pressure, the witness had to recant his testimony.
Visual representation of the word "Recant"

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