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Returns Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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returns

[rɪˈtɜːnz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in computing

Returns refer to the output of a function or method in programming, indicating the value that the function or method produces as a result of its execution.

Synonyms

output, response, result.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
returns

This is a repetition in the list, and the context and examples should be referred to the first entry for 'returns'.
output

Output is commonly used in production, manufacturing, or computing contexts to denote the amount of something produced or the result from a process or operation.

  • The factory's output increased by 20% this quarter.
  • The program's output shows the processed data.
result

Result is versatile and can refer to the outcome of an action, process, or event. It's applicable in a wide range of fields including academics, science, sports, and general usage.

  • The experiment's result was surprising.
  • We are waiting for the results of the election.
response

Response fits best when talking about reactions, replies, or answers to stimuli, questions, or situations. It can be used in both human and technical communications.

  • His response to the invitation was positive.
  • The server did not give the expected response due to an error.

Examples of usage

  • The return value of a function can be assigned to a variable.
  • After calling the function, you can use the return statement to get the result.
  • The return type of a function determines the data type of the value it returns.
Context #2 | Verb

in business

Returns can also refer to the process of giving back a product or receiving a refund for a purchase, typically due to dissatisfaction or the need to exchange the item.

Synonyms

exchange, give back, refund.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
returns

Used in the context of bringing back a purchased item to the store, often for a refund or exchange. Common in retail and e-commerce.

  • Many stores have a 30-day returns policy
  • My returns were processed quickly and I got my money back
give back

Generally used in a broader context compared to 'return', 'give back' can be used in both formal and informal situations when returning something that was borrowed or taken.

  • I need to give back the book I borrowed from the library
  • Please give back my charger when you're done
exchange

Refers to replacing an item with another item, typically of similar value, often when the original item is defective or not as expected.

  • I went to the store to exchange the shirt for a different size
  • They allow exchanges within 14 days of purchase
refund

Specifically refers to the money that is returned to the buyer when an item is returned. Used frequently in financial transactions.

  • I didn't like the product, so I asked for a refund
  • The airline issued a refund after the flight was canceled

Examples of usage

  • If you are not satisfied with the product, you can return it for a full refund.
  • The store has a return policy that allows customers to return items within 30 days.
  • She returned the dress because it was the wrong size.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Economics

  • In finance, 'returns' refer to the gains generated on an investment, often expressed as a percentage.
  • Different types of investments (stocks, bonds, real estate) can yield varying returns and risk levels.
  • Higher potential returns usually come with higher risk, making financial planning essential.

Entertainment

  • The phrase 'returns' is often used in film and television to announce sequels, such as 'The Hero Returns.'
  • In sports, 'returns' can refer to a player's comeback after an injury or a break, creating excitement among fans.
  • Game mechanics often involve 'returns,' where players may return to previous levels or challenges.

Psychology

  • The concept of 'returns' can refer to returning to a habit or behavior, especially in addiction recovery.
  • Feelings of nostalgia can lead people to seek 'returns' to previous experiences or stages in life.
  • In closure, psychological returns can help individuals find resolution or healing after difficult events.

Technology

  • In programming, 'return' is a keyword used to send values back from functions to where they were called.
  • E-commerce heavily relies on product returns; retailers must manage return policies to maintain customer satisfaction.
  • Cloud computing offers 'returns' in the form of data recovery processes that bring back lost information.

Origin of 'returns'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'revertere,' meaning 'to turn back.'
  • It entered English in the late 14th century, where it meant to come back or go back.
  • Originally associated with the movement of people or property, it now covers a wide range of actions.

The word 'returns' has its origin in Middle English, derived from the Old French word 'retourner', meaning 'to turn back'. It has been used in various contexts over the centuries, evolving to encompass both the concept of output in computing and the process of product return in business.

See also: return, returnable, returning.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,125, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.