things returning to normal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "things returning to normal" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a situation that is stabilizing or reverting to a previous state after a period of disruption or change. Example: "After months of uncertainty, it seems that things are finally returning to normal in our community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Ahead of the Game OPRAH WINFREY'S talk show has spent days focusing on the terrorist attacks, but yesterday there was a sign of things returning to normal: a new installment of Oprah's Book Club.

The New York Times

The interview ran with a photo of him playing with a shaved cat — which, in his world, can be seen as a sign of things returning to normal — he sounded, at times, quite familiar: "I've been drawn into the vortex of politics," Ai told the Global Times.

The New Yorker

On top of this, after the magical doctor finally figures out what's wrong, the movie just ends with things returning to normal.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Gradually, things returned to normal.

The New Yorker

Then, with stunning swiftness, things returned to normal.

The New York Times

When I faced front, things returned to normal.

The New York Times

But then Rocker rambled in from the bullpen, and things returned to normal.

The New York Times - Sports

"But there are a lot of signs that things returned to normal in October".

The New York Times

Just like that it's all over, the stage is cleared and things return to normal.

Independent

Even after Charlie Hebdo things returned to normal, but I'm starting to wonder maybe I should move.

The Guardian

"Will things return to normal?" said Scott Goldsmith, a professor of economics at the University of Alaska Anchorage's Institute for Social and Economic Research.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "things returning to normal" when you want to convey a sense of optimism that a disruptive event is resolving and stability is being re-established.

Common error

Avoid using "things returning to normal" too soon after a disruptive event, as it can sound insensitive or dismissive if the situation is still significantly affecting people's lives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "things returning to normal" functions as a nominal phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a process or state of affairs. As shown in Ludwig, this phrase is widely used to describe the resolution of disruptive events.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "things returning to normal" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express a sense of stabilization and recovery after a period of disruption. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. Though not exceedingly frequent, the phrase is common in news and media contexts. Consider alternative phrases like "life getting back to normal" or "situations stabilizing" for nuanced expressions. Avoid overuse immediately following disruptive events to maintain sensitivity. The phrase functions as a nominal phrase, serving to reassure and offer a positive perspective. Ludwig examples point out that the phrase is widely used to describe the resolution of disruptive events.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Life getting back to normal

Focuses on life circumstances specifically, adding the nuance of personal experience.

Situations stabilizing

Highlights the stabilization aspect, suggesting a broader context rather than specific elements.

The status quo being restored

Emphasizes the restoration of the previous state, often referring to formal or systemic conditions.

Order being re-established

Stresses the re-establishment of structure and control, typically after chaos or disarray.

Normal service is resumed

Commonly used in service-related announcements, indicating a return to regular operations.

Returning to the way things were

Directly points to a previous condition or manner of life, now being revisited.

Settling back into routine

Focuses on the return to a predictable and regular pattern of activities.

Everything going back to normal

Implies a comprehensive return, encompassing all aspects of a given scenario.

Things falling back into place

Suggests a more natural and passive restoration, implying ease and inevitability.

The dust settling

A metaphorical phrase implying calmness and clarity after a period of turmoil or confusion.

FAQs

What does "things returning to normal" mean?

The phrase "things returning to normal" indicates a situation or environment is reverting to a state of normalcy after a period of disruption or change.

How can I use "things returning to normal" in a sentence?

You might say, "After the storm, residents hoped "life getting back to normal" quickly." or "With the new policies in place, we anticipate "situations stabilizing" soon."

What are some alternatives to "things returning to normal"?

Alternatives include phrases such as "life getting back to normal", "situations stabilizing", or "the status quo being restored", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "things are returning to normal"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase "things are returning to normal" is a common and widely accepted expression in English.