would you mind returning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "would you mind returning" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used as a polite request asking someone to return something or to come back. Example: "Would you mind returning the book you borrowed last month?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"Would you mind returning this when you're done?" I might have been better off without it.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Now, he would not mind returning to the N.B.A. in some capacity.

The New York Times - Sports

Still, Isringhausen said he would not mind returning to New York one day.

The New York Times - Sports

That said, he wouldn't mind returning to work in New York, with the Nets or the Knicks.

The New York Times

At a press conference after his release, he said he wouldn't mind returning to Beirut "if it proves possible to go back to help with the rebuilding process".

The New Yorker

Still cheaper than most countries around, more beautiful than some too, the historic villages, famous wines, tranquil coves and beaches are no longer a secret; the established stability of the country makes it a great vacation place I wouldn't mind returning to, and perhaps even see more dolphins!

Huffington Post

Would you mind announcing our agreement to them?' " After Aliyev's press conference, Leviev remembers returning triumphantly to the synagogue to deliver the good news.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Would you mind?" I asked.

The New York Times

Would you mind that?" "No.

The New Yorker

"Would you mind doing that?

The New Yorker

Would you mind?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "would you mind returning", ensure the context is clear regarding what needs to be returned. Be specific to avoid confusion.

Common error

Avoid using "would you mind returning" in situations where a direct order is more appropriate. The phrase is polite but can sound passive-aggressive if the situation requires assertiveness.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "would you mind returning" is to serve as a polite interrogative request. Ludwig's examples show its use in everyday conversation to gently ask someone to give something back. It softens the request, making it less demanding.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "would you mind returning" is a polite and versatile phrase used to request the return of something, as highlighted by Ludwig's examples. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts. It maintains a neutral register, making it appropriate for both professional and informal communication. While not extremely common, it is recognized and understood across different domains, with a noticeable presence in news media and general conversation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Could you please return

More direct and polite request.

Would you be so kind as to return

More formal and polite.

Can you return

A more casual and direct inquiry.

Is it possible for you to return

Focuses on possibility and capability.

Are you able to return

Similar to 'Is it possible' but emphasizes ability.

I would appreciate it if you returned

Expresses appreciation in advance.

Do you mind if you return

Indirect and less common phrasing.

Could you send back

Focuses on sending rather than returning.

Are you going to return

Inquires about intention to return.

Can I have it back

Simple request for something back.

FAQs

How to use "would you mind returning" in a sentence?

Use "would you mind returning" to make a polite request. For example, "Would you mind returning the book you borrowed last week?"

What can I say instead of "would you mind returning"?

Alternatives include "could you please return", "would you be able to return", or "can you return" depending on the level of formality.

Is "would you mind returning" a formal or informal phrase?

"Would you mind returning" is generally considered a polite and semi-formal phrase, suitable for most everyday interactions but may not be ideal for very formal settings. Using a more direct request might be more appropriate such as "please return".

How does "would you mind returning" differ from "can you return"?

"Would you mind returning" is a more polite and indirect request, while "can you return" is more direct. The former is generally preferred when you want to be courteous, while the latter is suitable for casual contexts or when you need a straightforward answer.