back / return
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back / return
A word of French origin meaning 'zurück' (back). It is mainly used in postal and travel contexts to refer to returning goods or to a return journey.
Wenn das Paket nicht zugestellt werden kann, geht es an den Absender retour.
If the package cannot be delivered, it goes back to the sender.
The word 'retour' comes from French and is used in German mainly in certain contexts such as postal services, commerce ('Retouren' — returns), or travel. In Austria, it is also more common in everyday speech.
Sie können die Ware innerhalb von 14 Tagen kostenlos retour schicken.
You can return the goods free of charge within 14 days.
As an adverb, 'retour' usually comes at the end of the sentence or clause. It describes the direction of an action.
Der Brief kam mit dem Vermerk „Empfänger unbekannt“ retour.
The letter came back marked 'recipient unknown.'
In the meaning 'zurück' (back), 'retour' is often combined with verbs of movement or sending. Typical phrases are 'retour schicken' (to send back), 'retour senden' (to return/send back), 'retour gehen' (to go back/be returned), or 'retour kommen' (to come back).
Wenn Ihnen die Jacke nicht passt, schicken Sie sie einfach an uns retour.
If the jacket doesn't fit you, simply send it back to us.
The expression 'hin und retour' is a fixed unit and means 'for the outward journey and the return journey.' It is used almost exclusively when buying train tickets or plane tickets.
Was kostet eine Fahrkarte nach Berlin, hin und retour?
How much is a ticket to Berlin, there and back?
back
'zurück' and 'retour' can both mean movement back to the starting point. 'zurück' is the normal and very general word: you go back, give something back, or come back home. 'retour' is much narrower in use. It fits mainly with returns, return journeys, or in the fixed expression 'hin und retour' (there and back). Learners may confuse the words because 'retour' often seems like 'zurück'. In everyday language, however, 'zurück' is usually more natural. 'retour' sounds more specific and fits especially in postal or travel contexts.
Das Paket geht retour, weil die Schuhe zu klein sind.
The package is being returned because the shoes are too small.
Nach dem Einkauf geht Maria direkt zurück nach Hause.
After shopping, Maria goes straight back home.