comeback

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "comeback" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a return to a previous state of success or popularity, often after a period of decline or absence. Example: "After a few years away from the spotlight, the singer made a remarkable comeback with her latest album."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Politics

Music

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Durkan could, as Tom Kelly argued earlier this year, find solace in a bigger, more professional club called Fianna Fail, where he can make a comeback in the green, white and gold colours of the Irish Republic's official 'Republican Party'.

The Guardian

Anwar leading a new government would be a remarkable comeback.

The Guardian

It is, truly, the season of the comeback.

The Guardian

George Osborne's sunny economic forecast and much of his claim that Britain is a "comeback country" have more to do with higher than expected levels of net inward migration than his stewardship as chancellor or the falling oil price.

The Guardian

Trailing by three goals at half-time after an absolutely shambolic start, somehow it turned the match on its head and they completed a miraculous 4-3 comeback in the dying seconds.

The Guardian - Sport

He also had a comeback for Cameron's claims that Labour would create chaos.

The Guardian

Now making a comeback as a low-impact alternative to running in leisure centres and gyms all over the country.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And so it was that the comeback was on.

The Guardian - Sport

The party that looked dead in the water a year ago has suddenly opened up a space for a comeback.

The Guardian

Even as he spoke out against international corruption, Anwar was plotting a political comeback.

The Guardian

The biggest irony is that, just as Slovakia was consummating its marriage with the west, Mr Meciar was staging a comeback, giving the west, and many Slovaks, the jitters.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about sports, "comeback" can specifically refer to overcoming a significant deficit to win. Highlight the margin and context (e.g., "a stunning 3-goal comeback").

Common error

Do not use "comeback" when referring to a simple return without a prior period of decline or obscurity. Instead, use "return" or "reappearance" for general instances.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "comeback" is as a noun. It describes an act of returning to a former position or condition, especially after a period of absence or decline. Ludwig examples illustrate its usage in various contexts, as recognized by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Sport

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "comeback" functions primarily as a noun, signifying a return to a previous state of success or popularity after a decline. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically sound and commonly used. Its usage spans various contexts, with news and media being the most prevalent. While alternatives like "return to prominence" or "resurgence" exist, "comeback" is a versatile term. However, avoid using "comeback" when a simple "return" is more appropriate. The phrase enjoys high usage across authoritative sources, cementing its place in contemporary English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

return to prominence

Emphasizes a return to a position of importance or fame after a period of obscurity.

resurgence

Highlights a renewed increase or revival after a period of decline.

revival

Focuses on the restoration of something that had declined or disappeared.

re-emergence

Suggests a return to visibility or activity after a period of being hidden or inactive.

recovery

Implies a return to a normal or healthy condition after a period of difficulty or decline.

rally

Indicates a recovery after a setback, often in a competitive context.

turnaround

Highlights a reversal of fortune or a significant improvement in performance.

back from the brink

Suggests a return from a situation of near failure or disaster.

second act

Refers to a new and successful phase in someone's life or career.

rise again

Emphasizes overcoming adversity and achieving renewed success.

FAQs

How can I use "comeback" in a sentence?

The word "comeback" is used to describe a return to success or popularity after a period of absence or decline. For example, "The athlete staged an impressive comeback after a serious injury" or "The band is planning a comeback tour next year".

What can I say instead of "comeback"?

You can use alternatives like "return to prominence", "resurgence", or "revival" depending on the specific context.

Is "comeback" formal or informal?

"Comeback" is generally considered a neutral term and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it appears more frequently in news and media or sports reporting.

What is the difference between a "comeback" and a "return"?

While "return" simply indicates a return to a place or activity, a "comeback" specifically implies a return to success or popularity after a period of decline or absence. A comeback suggests overcoming adversity.