return / restitution
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return
The process of giving an item back to the place or person from whom you received, bought, or borrowed it.
Die Rückgabe der Ware ist innerhalb von 14 Tagen möglich.
The return of the goods is possible within 14 days.
The word consists of the prefix 'Rück-' (back) and the noun 'Gabe' (from the verb 'geben' (to give)). So it literally describes a 'giving back'.
Bitte denken Sie an die rechtzeitige Rückgabe der ausgeliehenen Werkzeuge.
Please remember to return the borrowed tools on time.
The context makes the meaning clear. In a shop or library, it is about the return of goods or books. In a museum or in politics, it is about the restitution of art or property. In sports, it is about playing the ball back.
Die Rückgabe des online gekauften Kleides war unkompliziert.
Returning the dress bought online was straightforward.
In everyday contexts, people often speak of the 'Frist für die Rückgabe' (deadline for return) or say that 'Rückgabe ausgeschlossen' (returns excluded) applies. 'Rückgabe von Leergut' (return of deposit bottles) is also a fixed expression.
Bei reduzierten Artikeln ist die Rückgabe meist ausgeschlossen.
For reduced items, returns are usually excluded.
In this meaning, 'Rückgabe' (restitution) belongs to a formal, often legal or political register. Typical verbs are 'die Rückgabe fordern' (to demand restitution) or 'über die Rückgabe verhandeln' (to negotiate restitution).
Die Erben fordern die Rückgabe eines wertvollen Gemäldes.
The heirs are demanding the restitution of a valuable painting.
release / publication
'Herausgabe' and 'Rückgabe' can both mean that something is given to another person. 'Rückgabe' is used when you bring back something that you borrowed, bought, or received. The word is very normal in everyday life, for example with books, clothing, or devices. 'Herausgabe' sounds more formal and is especially suitable when someone has to hand something over because it is being demanded or belongs to someone else. So there can be some overlap when property is involved. Learners may confuse the words because in both cases something changes hands. As a guide: bringing something back voluntarily or as a normal process is usually 'Rückgabe'; handing something over because it is demanded or official is more likely 'Herausgabe'.
Die Rückgabe des geliehenen Buches war erst am Montag möglich.
The return of the borrowed book was only possible on Monday.
Die Polizei verlangt die Herausgabe der gefundenen Tasche.
The police are demanding the handover of the bag that was found.