Refund: meaning, definitions and examples

When you want your money back after returning a product or service that did not satisfy you.

• They promised to give me a full refund if I was not happy with the product
• I asked for a refund because the shoes didn't fit properly

When someone covers your expenses, typically in a more formal or business-related situation.

• The company will reimburse you for travel expenses
• I need to get reimbursed for the supplies I bought for the project

When you pay back money that you borrowed or owe to another person.

• I need to repay my friend the $50 I borrowed
• He promised to repay the loan next month

When you physically give back an item you purchased or received, possibly leading to a refund.

• I need to return this shirt because it's the wrong size
• The store allows you to return items within 30 days

This is usually used when a customer returns a purchased item to a store or cancels a service, and gets their money back. It is common in retail and service industries.

• I returned the faulty toaster and got a full refund from the store.
• If you're not completely satisfied with the subscription, you can request a refund within 30 days.

This term is typically used when someone has expended their own money for business or personal reasons and is getting paid back. It is often used in professional or medical contexts.

• The company will provide a reimbursement for travel expenses incurred during the business trip.
• Patients can apply for a reimbursement of their medical costs through the insurance provider.

This word is commonly used in financial contexts where someone is returning borrowed money, such as loans or debts. It has a formal tone.

• They set up a monthly repayment plan to pay off the loan.
• The repayment of the debt was completed ahead of schedule.

In this context, 'return' is used when a product or item is given back to where it was purchased from, without necessarily implying a financial transaction. It is often used in everyday scenarios.

• I need to return the book I borrowed from the library.
• She decided to return the dress because it didn't fit.