returning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "returning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in various contexts, such as indicating the act of going back to a previous place or state. Example: "After a long vacation, I am returning to my hometown next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Tech

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

One brief, unmitigated disaster later, Rangers were returning to the man who self-evidently could not win the trophy they most covet.

The Guardian - Sport

Relatives, friends and teachers of 16 German schoolchildren who were returning from an exchange in Spain when the plane crashed are also present.

The Guardian

At least four are now dead and one is in jail after returning to Britain.

The Guardian

Erin Klein, who tracks US radio stations for the Broadcasting Board of Governors, was relieved to be returning to the office and keen to check on the status of the database she manages.

The Guardian

Abu Ahmed knew the environment he was returning to.

The Guardian

Gregory announced on Saturday that he would not be returning to the club.

The Guardian - Sport

"It is a big challenge for us, but that is why you play ball," said Heaslip, who after returning from Australia admitted he had been "pissed off" with the Lions [and Wales] head coach, Warren Gatland.

The Guardian - Sport

Related: Julie Bishop unable to convince Iran to take back asylum seekers Bishop was seeking Iran's support in the returning of rejected asylum seekers to their home countries.

The Guardian

Yeah, the watch is another device, but it's the first device that's returning us to almost a more human-connected method of being.

The Guardian - Tech

"We have some experienced players returning this weekend but we know Italy will be tough.

The Guardian - Sport

So now it's fun to see Lara Croft returning the favour in a new endless-runner game that takes its cues from Temple Run.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "going back" or "reverting" if they more precisely capture the nuance you intend to convey.

Common error

Avoid using "returning" in contexts where the action is not truly a return to a previous state but rather a new beginning or a simple progression. Using "starting" or "beginning" might be more accurate.

Linguistic Context

The word "returning" primarily functions as a verb, specifically the present participle of the verb 'return'. It often indicates an ongoing action of going back to a place, state, or activity, as confirmed by Ludwig and demonstrated in examples found across various sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Sport

25%

Tech

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "returning" is a versatile verb form used to describe the act of going back or reverting. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. It's most commonly found in news and sports contexts, maintaining a neutral register. When using "returning", ensure clarity about what is being returned to and consider synonyms if a more precise nuance is needed. While "returning back" is often used, it's typically considered redundant. Remember that "returning" describes processes of reversion or movements back to prior states.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

going back

Emphasizes the act of physically moving back to a place.

coming back

Highlights the act of arrival after a period away.

reverting

Implies a return to a previous condition or behavior.

reappearing

Focuses on the act of becoming visible again.

resuming

Indicates the continuation of an activity after an interruption.

regressing

Suggests a return to a less developed state.

restoring

Emphasizes the act of bringing something back to its original condition.

revisiting

Implies going back to a topic or idea for further consideration.

retracing

Focuses on following the same path again.

relapsing

Indicates a return to a previous, typically negative, state or habit.

FAQs

How can I use "returning" in a sentence?

You can use "returning" to describe the act of going back to a place (e.g., "He is "returning home""), resuming an activity (e.g., "She is "returning to work""), or reverting to a state (e.g., "The weather is "returning to normal"").

What are some alternatives to "returning"?

Alternatives to "returning" include "going back", "coming back", "reverting", and "reappearing". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "returning back"?

While commonly used, "returning back" is often considered redundant. It's generally better to simply use "returning" as it already implies the action of going back.

What's the difference between "returning" and "going back"?

"Returning" often implies a more formal or deliberate action of going back, whereas ""going back"" can be more general and less formal. The terms are often interchangeable, but "returning" might be preferred in more official contexts.