返す vs 返却する
Japanese word comparison
Listen to 返す
Listen to 返却する
| 返す | 返却する |
|---|---|
kae-SU verb (godan, transitive) | へんきゃくする verb (godan, transitive) |
| to return (something) to someone; to give back; to repay (a favor) | to return (an item), especially borrowed goods, often used for formal or institutional returns |
How they differ
返却する is a more formal or institutional term used for returning borrowed or rented items (library books, rented equipment), while 返す is more general and used in casual speech to give something back to someone.
When to use each
When to use 返す: Prefer 返す for casual, interpersonal situations or when speaking informally about giving something back.
When to use 返却する: Prefer 返却する in formal, written, or institutional contexts such as library systems, rental contracts, or official notices.
Side-by-side examples
- 彼に財布を返すのを忘れないでください。
(Please don't forget to give his wallet back to him.) - 図書館に本を返却する期限は来週です。
(The deadline to return the book to the library is next week.)
Register & nuance: 返却する is more formal and often used in written, administrative, or business contexts.