Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Return" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "return", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
戻す
もどす (modosu)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
折り返し
おりかえし (orikaeshi)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "return" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 戻す and 折り返し.
In Japanese, 戻す (もどす (modosu)) is typically associated with "to return (something); to put back; to vomit" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents This is a transitive verb, meaning it takes a direct object. It is commonly used to express returning an item to its original place or state. For example, 「本を棚に戻す」.
On the other hand, 折り返し (おりかえし (orikaeshi)) maps to "by return (mail/call), in return, immediate reply/call back" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Primarily used in telecommunications or correspondence to mean "immediately" or "by return," especially when promising to return a call or send a reply. It implies quick action.. A literal translation of "return" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "戻す"
借りた本を図書館に**戻し**ました。
I **returned** the book I borrowed to the library.
Bilingual Context for "折り返し"
後ほど、担当者から折り返しお電話いたします。
The person in charge will call you back shortly.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "借りた本を図書館に**戻し**ました。" (Meaning: "I **returned** the book I borrowed to the library.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "戻す" fits here because it means "to return (something); to put back; to vomit" in the context of: "I **returned** the book I borrowed to the library.". "折り返し" represents "by return (mail/call), in return, immediate reply/call back".