return to the front

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "return to the front" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is instructed to go back to the front of a line, queue, or position, often in a physical or metaphorical sense. Example: "After completing the task, please return to the front of the line to await further instructions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Then he would return to the front.

The New Yorker

He has resolved not to return to the front.

The New Yorker

The acquisition marks Mr Norman's return to the front line.

The Guardian - Business

He was intending to return to the front when the doctors let him out of hospital.

Independent

Martin Castrogiovanni leaves the comfort of the television studio to return to the front row.

The Guardian - Sport

When it comes out, the Kelly story will return to the front pages.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

He later returned to the front.

The Guardian - Arts

The minister returned to the front of the church.

The New Yorker

And on Sunday he returned to the front lines.

The New York Times

We returned to the front of the house.

The New York Times - Travel

I returned to the front and found a spot along the wall to stand.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "return to the front" in military contexts, ensure it aligns with the specific nature of the situation, like combat or defensive lines. In non-military contexts, make sure the 'front' is clearly defined for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "return to the front" when the 'front' is ambiguous or undefined. Always ensure the context provides clarity on what the 'front' refers to, whether it's a literal location or a metaphorical position, otherwise consider more direct phrases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "return to the front" functions as a verb phrase indicating the act of going back to a primary or forward position. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and usable in written English. This can be literal, such as returning to a battlefront, or metaphorical, like an issue regaining prominence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "return to the front" is a versatile expression that signifies a resumption or re-engagement with a previous position or state. As Ludwig AI validates, it is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts. Its usage spans from literal military scenarios to metaphorical applications in politics and media. When using this phrase, clarity is key, especially in defining what constitutes the 'front'. Alternatives such as "go back to the front" or "rejoin the front lines" can provide similar meaning with slight variations in tone and specificity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

go back to the front

Uses simpler vocabulary while maintaining the core meaning of returning to a forward position.

head back to the front

Suggests movement or direction towards the front.

move back to the front

Implies a physical relocation to the front area.

get back to the front

Similar meaning, but uses a more casual tone.

come back to the front

Emphasizes the action of coming back to a prior location.

rejoin the front lines

More specific to military contexts, implying a return to active combat duty.

reassume a frontline position

More formal and emphasizes the act of taking back a leading role.

revert to the front

Suggests a return to a prior condition or status at the front.

restore to the front

Focuses on the act of restoring someone or something to its former position at the front.

go to the forefront again

Focuses on regaining prominence or visibility.

FAQs

How can I use "return to the front" in a sentence?

You can use "return to the front" to indicate a return to a previous position or state, such as in "After recovering from his injury, he planned to return to the front lines" or "The issue will return to the front pages after the new revelations".

What does "return to the front" mean in a military context?

In a military context, "return to the front" typically means going back to the active combat zone or the primary defensive line after a period of absence, such as recovery from injury or temporary reassignment.

What are some alternatives to "return to the front"?

Alternatives to "return to the front" include "go back to the front", "rejoin the front lines" (especially in military contexts), or "head back to the front", depending on the specific context.

Is "return to the front" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "return to the front" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing military or political situations. However, ensure that the context clearly defines what the "front" represents.