give back

The phrase 'give back' often conveys a sense of returning something, whether it's an item, effort, or goodwill, usually with an element of gratitude or obligation.

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Definition

A2General

(common)To return something to the person who gave it or to its original place.

Example

  • She decided to give back the book she borrowed from the library.
  • Please give back the keys after you are done using them.

B1Charity

(philanthropy)To contribute time, effort, or resources to help others, often in appreciation of one's own success.

Example

  • He volunteers at the local shelter to give back to the community.
  • Many successful individuals feel the need to give back by donating to charitable causes.

B1Reciprocity

(social)To reciprocate or respond to a favor, kindness, or benefit received.

Example

  • After receiving so much help, she wanted to give back by offering her assistance.
  • He felt it was important to give back after being supported by his friends.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "give back":

take backpay backget backsend backbring backgive aboutgive awaygive againstwin backcome backturn backput backthrow backget back toyield upgo back ongive incircle backask backgive overgive it to someoneanswer backgo back towalk backtalk backrow back