Translation guide
The English phrase 'coming back' can refer to physically returning to a place, resuming an activity or state, or making a comeback in a competitive context. Japanese uses different verbs and expressions depending on the nuance.
Expressing that someone or something is returning to a location, often where the speaker or listener is.
The most common way to say 'coming back' when returning to a place. 戻る (modoru) means 'to return', and 〜てくる (te kuru) adds the nuance of coming back toward the speaker.
He'll be coming back soon.
Wait a moment, I'll be right back.
Used specifically when returning home or to one's base. 帰る (kaeru) implies going back to where one belongs.
My father comes back home at 6 every day.
Let me know when you come back from your trip.
Simply 'to return'. Can be used for 'coming back' when the direction toward the speaker is clear from context, but 戻ってくる is more natural for 'coming back'.
I'm waiting for him to come back.
Describing the return to a previous condition, activity, or topic.
Used for returning to a previous state or activity. Often combined with 〜に (ni) to indicate the state.
I've finally come back to my daily routine.
Let's come back to the original topic.
Formal term for returning to a position, job, or activity, often after an absence. Common in work or sports contexts.
He's coming back to work next month.
Referring to a person, team, or trend regaining success or popularity after a decline.
Means 'to revive' or 'make a comeback'. Used for trends, fashions, or personal revivals.
That singer has recently made a comeback.
90s fashion is coming back.
Literally 'to bloom again', used metaphorically for a comeback, especially in politics or sports. Somewhat literary.
Loanword from English 'comeback', used in entertainment and sports.
The band made a comeback.
Describing when a memory or feeling returns.
Means 'to be recalled vividly' or 'to come flooding back'. Used for memories, sensations, or emotions.
When I hear that song, memories of my childhood come back.
Can be used metaphorically for feelings or memories returning, though よみがえる is more vivid.
My confidence is gradually coming back.
戻る (modoru) is general 'return' to any place. 帰る (kaeru) is specifically returning home or to one's base. Use 帰る for going back to your house, country, or office (if it's your main workplace). Use 戻る for returning to a store, a friend's house, or a previous location that isn't 'home'.
English 'coming back' often uses the -ing form, but Japanese does not have a direct equivalent. Use the appropriate verb form based on context. For future 'will come back', use 戻ってくる/帰ってくる. For present progressive 'is coming back', use 戻ってきている/帰ってきている.
He made a comeback in the political world.