return Definition
- 1come or go back to a place or person
- 2give, put, or send (something) back to a place or person
- 3feel, say, or do (the same feeling, action, etc.) in response
Using return: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "return" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
I will return home tomorrow.
Example
Please return the book when you're finished reading it.
Example
He returned my smile.
Example
The company is returning profits to its shareholders.
return Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using return
Example
After years of traveling abroad, the prodigal son returns to his hometown.
to say or do something kind or polite to someone who has said or done something kind or polite to you
Example
When he complimented her on her cooking, she returned the compliment by praising his wine selection.
Example
After a few disappointing performances, the athlete returned to form and won the championship.
Phrases with return
Example
She helped me move last weekend, so I'm returning the favor by helping her paint her apartment.
Example
Once we cross the border, we'll have reached the point of no return and won't be able to turn back.
diminishing returns
a point at which the level of profits or benefits gained is less than the amount of money or energy invested
Example
We've already spent so much time on this project that any further work would result in diminishing returns.
Origins of return
from Old French 'retorner', from Latin 're-' meaning 'back' + 'tornare' meaning 'to turn'
Summary: return in Brief
The verb 'return' [rɪˈtərn] means to come or go back to a place or person, give or send something back, or feel, say, or do the same thing in response. It can be used in phrases like 'return the favor,' meaning to help someone who has helped you, and idioms like 'the prodigal son returns,' referring to someone who has been away for a long time. 'Return' also has formal synonyms like 'revert' and 'restore.'
