bring something back

USAGE SUMMARY

"bring something back" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe the action of returning something to its original location or state. This phrase can be used in various contexts, such as bringing back an item that was borrowed, bringing back a memory, or bringing back a tradition. Example: I borrowed a book from the library and I need to bring it back tomorrow. The smell of fresh cookies always brings me back to my childhood. We should bring back the tradition of family dinners once a week.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

"To bring something back to the ecosystem".

The New York Times - Science

"Our intention isn't to bring something back," he says.

The New York Times - Arts

Travelogue: Every trip I've ever been on, I bring something back.

The New York Times - Magazine

Every trip he took abroad for the factory, he would always bring something back for me and the children.

The New Yorker

"Because wherever I go in the world, I think about her and I want to bring something back.

The New York Times

It's nice to bring something back to the taxpayer, to show we really are advancing future of humanity.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

Restoration is bringing something back to life.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The line brings something back to me now.

The Guardian - Books

She was so happy that we're bringing something back to the neighborhood that reminds her of her youth".

The New York Times

"It's really bringing something back to life that people will come and enjoy".

The New York Times

"Older New Yorkers have told me that I'm bringing something back to the subway that is getting lost".

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "bring something back", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being returned or restored. For instance, specify "bring back memories" or "bring back the book" for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "bring back" in vague contexts. Instead of saying "Let's bring back something", specify what you intend to restore, such as "Let's bring back the tradition of handwritten letters".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bring something back" functions primarily as a phrasal verb, indicating the act of returning an object, memory, or practice to its original state or location. It aligns with Ludwig's examples, demonstrating its versatility in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bring something back" is a versatile phrasal verb used to describe the act of returning, restoring, or reviving something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and finds common usage across various contexts, especially in News & Media. While it's generally suitable for both formal and informal communication, specific contexts may benefit from more precise alternatives such as "restore something" or "reinstate something". Remember to provide specific details about what is being returned or restored to avoid vagueness and maximize clarity. While the phrase is common in conversation and writing, being mindful of the context allows for more impactful and clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

return something

Focuses on the act of giving something back to its original place or owner.

restore something

Emphasizes the act of bringing something back to a former condition or state.

revive something

Highlights the act of bringing something back to life or activity.

reintroduce something

Focuses on bringing something back into a system or environment where it was previously absent.

reclaim something

Emphasizes regaining possession of something that was lost or taken away.

retrieve something

Highlights the act of finding and bringing something back.

fetch something

Implies going to get something and bringing it back.

recapture something

Focuses on regaining something that was previously lost or escaped.

regenerate something

Implies creating something again or anew.

rehabilitate something

Emphasizes restoring something to a good condition or working order.

FAQs

How can I use "bring something back" in a sentence?

You can use "bring something back" to describe returning a physical object (e.g., "Please bring the book back to the library"), restoring a past practice (e.g., "Let's bring back family game night"), or reviving a memory (e.g., "That song always "brings back memories"").

What's a more formal way to say "bring something back"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "restore something" or "reinstate something" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "bring something back" in a business context?

Yes, it is acceptable. For example, you might say, "The company aims to "bring back profits"" or "We need to bring back customer loyalty".

What's the difference between "bring something back" and "give something back"?

"Bring something back" generally implies returning something to its original place or state. "Give something back" suggests returning something as a form of reciprocation or gratitude.