What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
payback
Example
He planned his payback against his former boss who fired him. [payback: noun]
Example
She wanted to pay him back for all the times he helped her. [pay back: phrasal verb]
Example
The payback on this investment is expected to be high. [payback: noun]
return
Example
Please return the book to the library when you're done. [return: verb]
Example
The return on investment was higher than expected. [return: noun]
Example
After the surgery, it took her a while to return to her normal routine. [return: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Return is more commonly used than payback in everyday language. Return is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while payback is less common and is typically associated with informal or negative contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between payback and return?
Return is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while payback is typically associated with informal or negative contexts and may not be appropriate in formal situations.
