a return for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a return for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a reciprocal action or exchange, often in the context of receiving something in exchange for a service or favor. Example: "She expected a return for her generosity, hoping that her friends would support her in her time of need."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They expect a return for having done that.

The New York Times

There will always be a return for a new idea".

Independent

How would Dyn produce a return for them?

The New York Times - Tech

That makes a return for the Yankees' final regular-season game in Boston rather unlikely.

The New York Times

Girardi said a return for Gardner by the All-Star break is unlikely.

The New York Times

"Old Shoe" commenced a return, for Miró, to painting from life, after his experimental adventures.

The New Yorker

He has released a return for 2010, and an estimate for 2011.

The New York Times

That's not much of a return for an almost $600 billion bribe.

The Economist

Many states require filing a return for a single day's work.

The New York Times

"Working with a private developer, the project must provide a return for its investors," he said.

The New York Times

We need to make a return for investment in the likes of smart metres".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a return for" when emphasizing the expectation of receiving something back, whether tangible or intangible, in exchange for an action or investment.

Common error

Avoid using "a return for" when simply describing a return in the sense of going back to a place. Instead, reserve it for situations involving reciprocation or investment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a return for" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, often following a verb, noun, or adjective. Ludwig examples confirm its role in indicating something received or expected in exchange for something else. Ludwig AI explains that it signifies reciprocal action or exchange.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a return for" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to express the expectation of receiving something in exchange for an action or investment. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, especially in news, business, and academic writing. While generally neutral in register, it leans towards the professional side. The most frequent authoritative sources using this phrase are The New York Times, The Guardian and BBC, among others. When employing the phrase, it is crucial to ensure the context clearly indicates the reciprocal nature of the exchange, avoiding its use when simply referring to a physical return. Alternatives such as ""a reward for"" or ""compensation for"" can be used to fine-tune the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a reward for

Emphasizes positive recompense for effort or service.

compensation for

Highlights the aspect of being reimbursed for something lost or suffered.

repayment for

Focuses on the act of paying back a debt or obligation.

reimbursement for

Specifically refers to getting money back for expenses.

a comeback for

Implies a resurgence or reappearance after a period of absence.

a resurgence of

Suggests a renewed growth or popularity.

reciprocity for

Highlights mutual exchange and interdependence.

quid pro quo for

Emphasizes a direct exchange of favors or services.

retribution for

Implies punishment or revenge for wrongdoing.

something in exchange for

A more general phrase denoting any type of trade or swap.

FAQs

How can I use "a return for" in a sentence?

Use "a return for" when you want to express that something is given or received as a result of something else. For example: "The company is seeking "a return on" its investment."

What is an alternative to "a return for"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a reward for", "compensation for", or "reimbursement for".

When is it appropriate to use "a return for" versus "a return on"?

"A return for" emphasizes what is given back in exchange for something, while ""a return on"" typically refers to financial gains or profits from an investment.

Is "a return for" formal or informal?

"A return for" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the surrounding language and the situation. It is common in business, news, and academic writing.