refund

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "refund" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the return of money for a product or service that was not satisfactory or was returned. Example: "I would like to request a refund for the defective item I purchased last week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You shall remain liable for the fees although we may, at our discretion, refund you a proportion of the fees where we have been able to reallocate your place.

The Guardian

Provided GNM has received your notice of cancellation within this time frame (and acknowledged your notice), GNM will refund any fees received from you less the deposit where applicable.

The Guardian

Returns policy Please see the terms and conditions for information on the refund policy.

The Guardian

We will not be able to refund you where we did not receive your notice 7 days before the start of the Guardian Masterclass (regardless of when you sent it).

The Guardian

In the case of Barclaycard's 35-month deal, a fee of 3.5% is applied, though it is reduced to 2.49% by a refund.

The Guardian - Money

Please note that GNMA will not refund travel costs for cancelled courses.

The Guardian

It said: "We considered that this emphasis on a £160 refund, which required a commitment of £320, was likely to encourage consumers who would not normally have spent £40 on twice weekly draws to spend more than they otherwise would have done, to their detriment in some cases.

The Guardian

Masterclasses take place on a specific date, therefore we will not be able to refund you where you do not attend or do not cancel in line with the above.

The Guardian

There is no entitlement to a refund where GNM is forced to cancel part or all of a Guardian Masterclass due to reasons beyond our reasonable control.

The Guardian

Employers are given a 100-day guarantee by agents, which allows them to return domestic workers they are not happy with and get a refund.

The Guardian

The retailer has pledged to refund customers in full for any orders that have not yet been dispatched.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When offering a "refund", clearly state the conditions and timeframe to avoid misunderstandings. Transparency builds trust with customers.

Common error

Don't use "rebate" when you mean a full return of money. A "rebate" is a partial return, often after a purchase, while a "refund" is typically a full return due to dissatisfaction or a return.

Linguistic Context

The word "refund" functions as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to the amount of money returned. As a verb, it means to give money back. Ludwig confirms this dual functionality, providing examples of its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "refund" is a versatile word, functioning as both a noun and a verb, primarily used in transactional contexts to describe the return of money. As Ludwig AI points out, it's grammatically correct and very common, finding its home most often in news and media outlets. When writing about "refunds", remember that clear communication of terms and conditions is important, and avoid using "rebate" when a full return is intended. Consider using synonyms like "reimbursement" or "repayment" to add variety to your language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reimbursement

Focuses on compensating for expenses already incurred.

return of payment

Emphasizes the action of giving back the original payment.

money returned

Highlights the state of money being given back.

funds returned

Similar to "money returned" but uses the term "funds".

money back

A simple and direct way to refer to getting money back.

compensation

Broadly refers to making amends for a loss or damage.

rebate

A partial return of an amount paid.

payback

Suggests a return of money, often in response to a previous action.

price adjustment

Implies a reduction in the original price after purchase.

credit

Referring to giving the money back in credit to be spent another time with the company.

FAQs

How do I properly use "refund" in a sentence?

You can use "refund" as a noun, such as, "I requested a "refund" for the damaged product". You can also use it as a verb: "The store will "refund" your money if you return the item within 30 days".

What are some common synonyms for "refund"?

Common synonyms include "reimbursement", "repayment", and "compensation". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is there a difference between a "refund" and a "rebate"?

Yes, a "refund" is typically a full return of money, often due to a problem with a product or service. A "rebate" is a partial return of money, often offered as an incentive after a purchase.

When am I entitled to a "refund"?

Entitlement to a "refund" depends on the terms and conditions of the sale, as well as consumer protection laws. Generally, you're entitled to a "refund" if a product is faulty, not as described, or doesn't perform its intended function.