Meaning and Usage
The verb 戻す (もどす) primarily means "to put back," "to restore," or "to return" something to its original state or place. It is commonly used when talking about returning objects, restoring files or settings, or undoing changes.
Common Contexts
- Returning physical items to their original location (e.g., tools, books).
- Restoring digital data or settings to a previous state.
- Returning borrowed items.
Collocations and Patterns
- 元の場所に戻す (もとのばしょにもどす): to put back to the original place.
- 前の状態に戻す (まえのじょうたいにもどす): to restore to the previous state.
- 図書館に戻す (としょかんにもどす): to return to the library.
Register and Politeness
戻す is a neutral verb and can be used in both casual and polite contexts. When making requests, it is often combined with ください (e.g., 戻してください).
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 戻す with 帰る (かえる) or 返す (かえす). 戻す focuses on putting something back or restoring, while 帰る means "to return home," and 返す means "to return something to someone." Use 戻す when emphasizing the action of putting back or restoring an object or state.