reimagine

Reimagine is a verb meaning to conceive of something anew, or reinterpret an idea, process, or object so that it aligns with new conditions or possibilities. It suggests a fundamental rethinking rather than minor tweaks. Reimagined is the past participle/adjective; reimagination is the related noun.

Etymology: formed from the prefix re- plus imagine; entered common usage in modern English and is widely used across business, culture, and technology.

Usage: Common in strategy and design discourse, e.g., reimagining education, urban spaces, or storytelling. It signals transformative change and is often tied to digital transformation, inclusive design, or sustainability.

Criticism and nuance: When overused, it can become vague marketing speak without concrete goals. Effective use pairs the vision with measurable steps such as pilots, user research, or prototyping.

Related terms: reinvent, rethink, reinterpret, reframe; conceptually linked to design thinking and futures studies.