Japanese

かえす
Meaning: to return (something); to give back
Part of Speech: Verb

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Verb inflections

Form Affirmative Negative
Present 返す 返さない
Polite 返します 返しません
Past 返した 返さなかった
Polite + Past 返しました 返しませんでした
Te-form 返して 返さなくて
Potential 返せる 返せない
Passive 返される 返されない
Causative 返させる 返させない
Imperative 返せ 返すな

Example sentences

友達に借りた本を返す。
I will return the book I borrowed from my friend.
彼は質問に対し、すかさず答えを返した。
He answered the question without a moment's delay.
この借りはいつか必ず返す。
I will definitely return this favor someday.
彼は、借金を返すのを渋っているようだ。
He seems to be reluctant to pay back the debt.
借金が返せなくなり、切羽詰まって嘘をついてしまった。
I couldn't pay back the debt and, being cornered, I told a lie.

Usage Notes

Used when returning an object to its owner or original place.

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