Definition of Return
Quick Meaning of Return
To go back somewhere you were before. To come home or to a previous location.
Detailed Definition of Return
To go or come back to a place or person after leaving.
How to Pronounce Return
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress on second syllable: re-TURN. The 'ur' sound is like 'er' in American English.
Watch out: Some learners pronounce as 'ri-TURN' with short 'i'; correct is 'ruh-TURN'.
Origin and Etymology of Return
From Old French 'retourner'. In English since 1200s.
How to Use Return in a Sentence
Each example shows “return” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“I return home every evening at six.”
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“She returned from vacation yesterday.”
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“The diplomat will return to the capital next week to resume negotiations.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Return
Common Synonyms for Return
Smart Synonyms for Return — When to Use Each
- come back
- Moving toward the speaker when arriving again
- go back
- General returning to any previous location
- get back
- Informal for arriving or coming home
Antonyms of Return
Common Collocations with Return
These phrases pair with “return” in everyday English:
- return home
- return to work
- return a call
Common Mistakes When Using Return
Even fluent speakers slip up with “return”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: She returned back to her house.
- ✓ Correct: She returned to her house.
- Why: 'Returned' already includes 'back'; don't add 'back' again
- ✗ Wrong: I returned the book from the library.
- ✓ Correct: I returned the book to the library.
- Why: Return something 'to' a place, not 'from'
Words Confused With Return
- Return vs Return (noun): Same word but noun means act of coming back; verb means the action itself
Other Forms of Return
Frequently Asked Questions About Return
What is the meaning of "Return"?
To go back somewhere you were before. To come home or to a previous location.
How do you pronounce "Return"?
The IPA is /rɪˈtɜːrn/. Stress on second syllable: re-TURN. The 'ur' sound is like 'er' in American English.
What part of speech is "Return"?
"Return" is a verb at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Return"?
Common synonyms include come back, go back, get back.
How do you use "Return" in a sentence?
For example: "I return home every evening at six."