What distinguishes "return home" from "return back" home?
2023-04-19
This is what goPenpal answered
When we talk about going home after being away, we often use the phrase "return home" or "return back" home. While both phrases have a similar meaning, there is a subtle difference in their usage.
"Return home" is often used when someone is referring to their original or usual place of residence. For example, if you are visiting your hometown after years of being away, you might say, "It's great to return home." Similarly, if you are living away from your family and are planning to go back to your parents' house, you might say, "I'm going to return home for the weekend."
On the other hand, "return back" home is often used when referring to a specific place or location someone has traveled from. For example, if you are on a business trip and are planning to fly back to your city, you might say, "I can't wait to return back home tomorrow." This phrase underscores that you're returning to the exact place you came from.
It's also worth noting that "return home" is considered to be a stronger phrase than "return back." The phrase "return back" is seen as slightly redundant, since the word "return" inherently means to go back to a certain place. So, if you want to emphasize your longing or excitement for your home, using "return home" would be a more effective choice.
In short, while both phrases are used interchangeably to refer to the act of returning to one's residence, "return home" emphasizes home as a personalized and meaningful place, while "return back" specifies a point of origin.
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