should be returning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "should be returning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate an expectation or obligation for someone or something to come back or revert to a previous state or location. Example: "The train should be returning to the station shortly after the delay."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

"They ask me, seriously, if I should be returning," he says.

The New Yorker

Amendola will still be out with an injury for week three, though he should be returning soon.

The Guardian - Sport

"Everything should be returning to normal very soon," the development minister, Francisco Alvarez Cascos, said as the deal was signed.

The New York Times

"At the end of the investigation, she should be returning," he said, unless charges of misconduct are brought against her.

The New York Times

"This has been such a huge boondoggle that the Legislature and people we represent have a right to know how we got here and who should be returning money to the state.

The New York Times

"We feel very strongly that they should be returning to show solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Israel," said Rabbi Avi Shafran, spokesman of Agudath Israel of America, an umbrella organization that serves the Orthodox community.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

"He should be returned to the United States".

The Guardian

Afghanistan should be returned to all Afghans.

The New York Times

These cultural relics should be returned".

The New York Times

He said "power should be returned to the people".

The Economist

Bowles agrees he should be returned to his burial place.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "should be returning" when you want to express an expectation or obligation for someone or something to revert to a previous state or location, especially when there's a reasonable basis for that expectation.

Common error

While "should be returning" is appropriate in many situations, consider stronger, more direct alternatives like "will return" or "is required to return" in formal documents or when conveying a firm expectation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "should be returning" functions primarily as a modal verb phrase expressing expectation or probability regarding a future event. Ludwig AI confirms its use in various contexts, indicating a projected or anticipated return.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

94%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "should be returning" is a versatile modal verb phrase used to express the expectation or likelihood of someone or something coming back. As Ludwig AI shows, it's commonly found in news and media contexts, suggesting an anticipated return based on prior knowledge or scheduling. While grammatically correct and frequently used, it's essential to consider the context and audience to determine if a more formal or direct alternative might be appropriate. Remember that "should" implies an expectation rather than a guarantee, making it distinct from phrases like "will be returning".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is supposed to be returning

Implies a pre-existing arrangement or plan for someone to return, often with a hint of potential deviation from that plan.

is expected to return

Indicates a projected return, often based on an estimation or schedule. Focus is on anticipation rather than obligation.

will likely be returning

Expresses a higher probability of return, emphasizing that the return is more probable than not.

is due back

Highlights a scheduled or anticipated return at a certain date or time. It's direct and emphasizes a deadline.

will probably be back

Suggests a return is more likely than not, but without a formal commitment.

is slated to return

Signifies a scheduled event, focusing on an organized or planned return

ought to be back

Emphasizes a moral duty or expectation of returning, subtly different from a simple prediction.

is anticipated to come back

Focuses on expectation, typically based on previous facts or conditions.

is projected to return

Implies a return based on a forecast or prediction, often using data or analysis.

is forecast to return

Suggests a prediction based on observed patterns or trends, adding a layer of probability.

FAQs

How can I use "should be returning" in a sentence?

You can use "should be returning" to indicate an expectation or obligation for someone or something to come back. For example, "The package "should be returning" to the sender if the address is incorrect."

What's a more formal way to say "should be returning"?

In formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "is expected to return" or "is slated to return" for a more professional tone.

How does "should be returning" differ from "will be returning"?

"Should be returning" implies an expectation or obligation, while "will be returning" expresses a definite intention or prediction. "He "will be returning" tomorrow" suggests a confirmed plan, whereas "He "should be returning" tomorrow" suggests it's expected, but not guaranteed.

What phrases are similar to "should be returning"?

Similar phrases include "is due back", "is supposed to be returning", or "is anticipated to come back", each conveying a slightly different nuance of expectation or schedule.