Definition of Return
The word return is a versatile verb and noun that primarily means to go or come back to a place, situation, or condition. It can also mean to give back something to its original owner, to yield a profit or result, or to express or reciprocate an action.
Synonyms of Return
Strongest Matches:
These words closely align with the primary meanings of “return.”
- Go back
- Come back
- Revert
- Reciprocate
- Restore
- Repay
- Yield
- Refund
- Reimburse
Strong Matches:
These words share key aspects of “return” but may have slightly different connotations.
- Recoil
- Regress
- Rebound
- Rescind
- Reestablish
- Recompense
- Reinvest
Weak Matches:
These words have some conceptual similarity but differ in key ways.
- Repeat
- Respond
- Refer
- Withdraw
- Replenish
- Restart
- Reverse
Example Sentences with “Return”
- She will return to New York next summer.
- The store allows customers to return items within 30 days for a full refund.
- His investments yielded a high return over the past five years.
- The king promised to return peace to the kingdom.
- She returned his smile with equal warmth.
- After a long hiatus, the singer finally returned to the stage.
Contextual Usage of “Return”
- Business & Finance: Used to discuss profits, refunds, or stock investments (e.g., “Return on investment”).
- Travel & Movement: Refers to coming back to a place (e.g., “Return flight”).
- Retail & Transactions: Relates to giving back a purchased item (e.g., “Return policy”).
- Emotional & Social: Expresses reciprocation of emotions or actions (e.g., “Return a favor”).
- Legal: Can indicate the annulment or reversal of a decision (e.g., “Return of a verdict”).
- Technology: Often refers to the “return key” on a keyboard.
Related Words
- Repatriation (returning to one’s homeland)
- Remittance (returning money to a sender)
- Reversion (returning to a previous state)
- Resurgence (returning to prominence or activity)
- Recompense (returning something as compensation)
Additional Information
- Etymology: Derived from Latin retornare (“to turn back”), combining re- (“back”) and tornare (“to turn”).
- Idioms & Phrases:
- “No return” (point of no reversal)
- “Return the favor” (do a good deed in response to another)
- “With interest and return” (financial gain or repayment with additional value)
- Common Collocations:
- “Return ticket”
- “Tax return”
- “Return on investment”
- “Return address”
Disclaimer
This page provides a general overview of the word “return” for educational and informational purposes. Synonyms and contextual meanings may vary depending on dialect, industry, and cultural factors. For precise language use, consult a dictionary or professional language expert.
