Translation guide
The English phrase "take back" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers how to express each one naturally in Japanese.
To withdraw or take back something you said, such as an opinion, promise, or insult.
General term for canceling or retracting a statement. Can be used in both formal and casual contexts.
He took back his earlier statement.
Formal term for withdrawing or retracting a statement, often used in official or public contexts.
The minister took back his remarks.
Literally "cancel what I said". A natural way to say "take back what I said" in conversation.
Sorry, I take back what I just said.
To bring an item back to a store for a refund or exchange.
To take something back that you previously gave or lent, or to regain control.
To take back or recover something that was lost, given away, or taken. Works for physical objects and abstract things like trust.
He took back the book he had lent.
To take back or take over something, often used for items left behind or for assuming responsibility.
To allow someone to come back, such as a former partner or employee.
To cause someone to remember or relive a past experience, often nostalgically.
Directly translating "take back" as 「取って戻す」 or 「バックを取る」 is unnatural. Always choose the appropriate Japanese expression based on the intended meaning.
You can take back the item if you have the receipt.
It's hard to take back trust.
預けた荷物を引き取りに行った。
I went to take back the luggage I had left.
会社は彼を元の部署に戻した。
The company took him back to his old department.
Looking at old photos took me back.