be returned

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be returned" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you would like to express the idea of something being sent back. For example, "The borrowed book should be returned to the library as soon as possible."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Can principal be returned?

Harvard Business Review

Slams can be returned.

The New York Times

Phones can be returned.

The Guardian - Tech

It cannot be returned to Tehran.

The New York Times

Verdicts will be returned in October.

Independent

Once taken, it can never be returned.

The New York Times

Part of that money would be returned.

The New Yorker

Would his art be returned to him?

The New Yorker

The box could be returned late.

The Economist

Entries will not be returned.

Yale University

Otherwise zero will be returned.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be returned" when you want to emphasize that something needs to be sent back to its original place or owner, often due to a specific reason like a defect or the end of a loan period.

Common error

Avoid using "be returned" when an active voice construction is more appropriate. For instance, instead of "The package should be returned by you", prefer "You should return the package".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be returned" functions as part of a passive verb construction. It indicates that the subject of the sentence is receiving the action of returning, rather than performing it. This usage aligns with examples provided by Ludwig and as is confirmed by Ludwig AI, such as "The aerogel will be returned to Earth in January 2006."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Academia

40%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be returned" is a versatile component of passive verb constructions, signifying that something is in the process of being sent back or restored. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across various domains, including news, academia, and science. Its neutral to formal register makes it suitable for both professional and general communication. Remember to use it when the action of returning is more important than the actor, and avoid overusing passive voice when active constructions are clearer. By paying attention to these nuances, you can effectively and accurately incorporate "be returned" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be sent back

Uses a more direct verb, focusing on the action of sending something to its origin.

to be given back

Emphasizes the act of giving something to a previous owner or possessor.

to be restored

Implies a return to a previous state or condition.

to be handed over

Focuses on the action of transferring possession.

to revert

Suggests a return to a prior condition or practice.

to be remitted

This suggests the action of sending money back.

to be delivered back

This phrases stresses the action of transporting an item back.

to be shipped back

Implies the item is returned via a shipping service.

to be transported back

Focuses on the action of moving something back.

to be moved back

Emphasizes a literal repositioning or relocation.

FAQs

How can I use "be returned" in a sentence?

You can use "be returned" in passive voice constructions, like "The book must "be returned" to the library" or "The defective product will "be returned" to the store".

What are some alternatives to "be returned"?

Alternatives include phrases like "be sent back", "be given back", or "be restored", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "be returned" over "return"?

Use "be returned" in passive constructions when the action is more important than the actor. Use "return" when you want to emphasize who is performing the action. Compare: "The item will "be returned"" (passive) versus "She will return the item" (active).

Is "be returned" formal or informal?

"Be returned" is neither strictly formal nor informal; its formality depends on the surrounding context. It can be used in news reports, academic papers, and casual conversations alike.