Translation guide
How to express 'send back' in Japanese, covering returning objects, people, replies, and more.
To send something back to its origin, such as a package, letter, or product.
The most direct equivalent for sending back physical items, especially by mail or delivery.
Please send back the product.
I sent back the wrong package.
Literally 'send and return'; common in casual speech for sending things back.
I received it, but I didn't like it, so I sent it back.
Specifically for returning purchased goods to a store or seller.
These clothes don't fit, so I'd like to send them back.
To send a person back to a place, such as home, school, or their country.
To reply to a message, email, or communication.
To send back light, sound, or a signal, like an echo or reflection.
To return a ball or object in a game.
返送する is more formal and often used in business or postal contexts. 送り返す is more casual and can be used for people or things in everyday conversation.
In many cases, Japanese uses a specific verb like 返す (return) or 返信する (reply) instead of a compound with 送る (send). Using 送り返す for everything can sound unnatural.
Can also be used for people, implying physically sending them back.
I sent the lost child back to their parents.
The mountain sent back an echo.