give them back

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "give them back" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used when asking someone to return something that belongs to someone else. Example: "Please give them back their books before you leave."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I can't give them back.

The New Yorker

"Then give them back to them.

The New Yorker

He can give them back now.

Independent

"Give them back!" he called out.

The New York Times

It didn't give them back.

The Guardian

I couldn't give them back".

The Guardian

Or give them back to Maryland.

The Washington Post

We'll find them and give them back".

The New York Times

"I want to give them back to the park rangers.

The New York Times

"The Austrian government didn't want to give them back".

The Guardian - Arts

Graff wants the institute to give them back.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "give them back", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what "them" refers to, avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "give them back" if the pronoun "them" is unclear or has not been previously defined in the sentence or surrounding text. Always ensure clarity to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "give them back" functions as a phrasal verb indicating the action of returning something to a group of people or entities. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Wiki

13%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

8%

Reference

8%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "give them back" is a common and grammatically correct phrasal verb used to describe the act of returning something to a group. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across various contexts, especially in news and media. While it's generally acceptable, ensure the pronoun "them" is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "return them" or "hand them over" can be used depending on the context and desired level of formality. When writing, clarity is key: make sure the reference is unmistakable to ensure your message is easily understood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

return them

Focuses on the act of returning something without necessarily specifying who receives it.

restore them

Implies returning something to its original condition or owner, often after a period of loss or damage.

hand them over

Suggests a formal or official transfer of something.

pass them back

Indicates returning something in a casual or informal manner, often within a group.

send them back

Emphasizes the action of returning something via a third party or through the mail.

bring them back

Highlights the act of physically transporting something back to its owner or original location.

reimburse them

Focuses on returning money or compensation.

refund them

Specifically relates to returning money after a purchase.

restitute them

A more formal and legal term for restoring something to its rightful owner.

allow their return

Emphasizes permission or authorization for something to be returned.

FAQs

How can I use "give them back" in a sentence?

You can use "give them back" when referring to returning something to a group of people, for example: "Please "give them back" their belongings after the meeting."

What is a more formal alternative to "give them back"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "return the items to them" or "restitute the items to them" for a more professional tone.

Is it ever incorrect to use "give them back"?

While generally correct, avoid using "give them back" if the reference to "them" is ambiguous. Always ensure it's clear who or what "them" refers to in your sentence.

What's the difference between "give them back" and "return them"?

"Give them back" implies a more direct and personal action of handing something back to someone. "Return them" is a more general term and can refer to any method of returning something.