"return" vs "come back"

Question

"return" vs "come back"

Both "come back" and "return" are correct phrases in English, but they are used in slightly different contexts. "Come back" is more casual and informal, often used in everyday conversations, while "return" is more formal and can be used in written or spoken language. The choice between the two depends on the level of formality you want to convey.

Last Updated: April 01, 2024

This word is used to indicate the action of going or coming back to a place or situation. It is more formal and suitable for professional or written contexts.

Examples:

He will return the book tomorrow.
The soldiers returned to their base.
Please return the form by Friday.
She returned to her hometown after many years.
The company decided to return to its original location.

Alternatives:

come back
go back
get back
come again
come home

This phrase is used to indicate the action of returning to a place or situation. It is more informal and suitable for everyday conversations.

Examples:

I'll come back later.
When will you come back home?
Please come back to visit us soon.
He promised to come back for the book.
Let's come back to this topic later.

Alternatives:

return
go back
get back
come again
come home

Answer 1

return

The word "return" is also correct in English and is more formal than "come back." It can be used in both written and spoken language.

Answer 2

come back

The phrase "come back" is correct and commonly used in English, especially in casual conversations.

"return" vs "come back"

return

come back

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