returned to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "returned to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to someone or something coming back or going back to a certain place or situation. For example: "After a long trip, he finally returned to his home."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Ahmad returned to Syria.

Independent

Thousands returned to city.

The Guardian

Matthews returned to Leavenworth.

The New York Times

Tissot returned to Paris.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They returned to U.Va.

The New Yorker

They returned to Ahmedabad.

The New York Times

Mudar returned to work.

The New York Times

Rosen returned to headquarters.

The New Yorker

Spalding returned to Norwich.

The New York Times

Tsikhiseli returned to coach.

The New Yorker

Tshombe returned to Spain.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "returned to", ensure the context clearly indicates the previous state or location. For instance, "After his vacation, he "returned to" his work" clearly shows the return to the state of working.

Common error

Avoid using "returned to" when the subject never actually occupied the state or place before. It's incorrect to say "He returned to the job" if he never held the job previously; "He took the job" is more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "returned to" functions as a verb phrase indicating a movement back to a previous location, condition, or activity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a standard and acceptable English construction. Examples in Ludwig show it applied to people, places, and abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Encyclopedias

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "returned to" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to indicate a return to a previous state, place, or activity. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in various contexts. It's frequently found in news articles and encyclopedias, and its usage spans from formal to informal settings. Remember to use it when there is a prior location, state, or activity. While alternatives such as "went back to" exist, "returned to" offers a slightly more formal tone. It’s also important to remember is that it cannot be used when a subject never actually occupied the state or place before.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

went back to

This alternative uses simpler vocabulary to convey the idea of returning.

came back to

Similar to "went back to" but with a slightly different emphasis on arrival.

made a return to

A more formal way of saying "returned to", often used in journalistic contexts.

re-entered

Emphasizes the act of entering again.

reverted to

Implies a return to a previous state, often undesirable.

found their way back to

Expresses the idea of returning after a period of wandering or separation, suggesting it was not easy or straightforward.

revisited

This implies going back to a place for a short time, without necessarily staying.

resumed

Focuses on restarting an activity or process.

relocated to

Suggests a more permanent return, often involving a change of residence.

was reinstated to

Specifically refers to being restored to a position or role.

FAQs

How can I use "returned to" in a sentence?

You can use "returned to" to indicate a return to a place, state, or activity. For example: "She "returned to" her hometown after many years", or "He "returned to" playing the piano after his injury".

What are some alternatives to "returned to"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "went back to", "came back to", or "reverted to".

Is there a difference between "returned to" and "went back to"?

While both phrases indicate a return, "returned to" can sound slightly more formal. "Went back to" is generally more casual and conversational.

When should I use "returned to" instead of "reverted to"?

"Returned to" generally implies a physical return or a neutral state. "Reverted to" suggests a return to a previous, often undesirable, state or behavior.