to complete and return

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to complete and return" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when instructing someone to fill out a form or document and send it back. Example: "Please fill out the attached form and remember to complete and return it by the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They may send you a tracing request form (PR4) to complete and return.

The Guardian

We hope you will take time to complete and return the survey.

Cornell University

Questionnaires were distributed by post, with requests to complete and return them in postage-paid envelopes.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

prohibited, the potential winner(s) may be required to complete and return an affidavit of.

TechCrunch

Questionnaires were distributed by regular post, with requests to complete and return them in postage-paid envelopes.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Participants in the programme were prompted weekly by text messages or email to complete and return self-measurement questionnaires.

International Journal of Bipolar Disorders

The last took the form of an exit questionnaire, which patients were asked to complete and return within 2 weeks.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

While these forms are not required, it is of benefit to you to complete and return these forms to us.

Springer

Parents were asked to complete and return all questionnaires.

BMC Psychiatry

Potential participants are invited to complete and return the completed questionnaire directly to the research team.

BMC Cancer

Care home managers were asked, by email, to complete and return the questionnaire within two weeks.

BMC Geriatrics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone to complete and return a form, provide clear deadlines and instructions to ensure timely submission.

Common error

Always specify how the completed form should be returned (e.g., by mail, email, or in person) to avoid confusion and delays.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to complete and return" functions as an infinitive verb phrase, often used in instructions or requests. It directs someone to perform two actions: first, to fill out or finalize a document (complete), and then to submit or send it back to the originator (return). Ludwig confirms its proper usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

80%

News & Media

10%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to complete and return" is a common and grammatically correct way to instruct someone to fill out and submit a document. As Ludwig confirms, its frequent use in scientific and academic contexts ensures its reliability. While variations such as "to fill out and send back" exist, the core meaning remains consistent. When using this phrase, clarity in instructions and deadlines is key. Remember to clearly state where/how to return. Also remember that Ludwig provides numerous examples of its correct use, offering guidance in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to fill out and send back

This alternative uses simpler language, replacing "complete" with "fill out" and "return" with "send back".

to fill in and return

Similar to "fill out and send back", this uses "fill in" as a substitute for "complete".

to finish and submit

This alternative focuses on the actions of finishing the task and then submitting it.

to accurately complete and return

Focuses on the accuracy of completing the form before returning it.

to finalize and submit

This alternative emphasizes the finalization aspect before submission.

to duly complete and return

Adding "duly" emphasizes that the form should be completed correctly and appropriately.

to accomplish and submit

This highlights the achievement of completing the form or document before submitting it.

to process and return

This alternative emphasizes the processing aspect of filling out the form.

to thoroughly complete and return

Emphasizes the level of detail and care required in completing the form.

to execute and return

Using "execute" adds a slightly more formal tone, implying thoroughness in completion.

FAQs

What does "to complete and return" mean?

The phrase "to complete and return" means to fill out a form or document and then submit it to the intended recipient. It implies both the act of providing the required information and the action of sending it back.

How can I use "to complete and return" in a sentence?

You might use it like this: "Please "fill out the attached form" and remember "to complete and return" it by the deadline."

Which is a more formal alternative to "to complete and return"?

A more formal alternative could be "to execute and return", implying a more thorough and official completion process.

What can I say instead of "to complete and return"?

You can use alternatives like "to fill out and send back" or "to finish and submit" depending on the context.