What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
repatriate
Example
The government is working to repatriate the refugees who fled the war-torn country. [repatriate: verb]
Example
The company decided to repatriate its profits to its home country. [repatriate: verb]
Example
The museum repatriated the stolen artifacts to their country of origin. [repatriated: past tense]
return
Example
I will return to my hometown for the holidays. [return: verb]
Example
Can you please return the book to the library? [return: verb]
Example
The company saw a return on its investment after a successful quarter. [return: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Return is a more commonly used word than repatriate in everyday language, as it is more versatile and covers a wider range of contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between repatriate and return?
Repatriate can have a more formal connotation due to its legal implications, while return can be used in both formal and informal contexts.