Translation and Meaning of: 引き返す - hikikaesu

The expression 「引き返す」 (hikikaesu) is composed of two kanji: 「引」 (hiki) which means "to pull, to attract" and 「返」 (kaesu) which means "to return, to give back". Together, these words form the sense of "to go back" or "to return", suggesting the idea of changing direction or reversing a previously followed path. The combination of these characters illustrates well the action of halting a movement and returning to the starting point.

The origin of the word 「引き返す」 dates back to the times when travel in Japan was mainly done on foot or horseback. The routes were long and often dangerous, causing travelers to frequently reconsider their path and return for various reasons, such as changes in weather or natural barriers. This common practice helped establish the expression in the everyday vocabulary of the Japanese, carrying the practical and emotional sense of "turning back."

Within the modern context, 「引き返す」 remains a relevant word used in various situations, both literal and metaphorical. For example, it can be used to describe the action of returning home because something was forgotten or even "to go back" on a decision or opinion. Furthermore, the hiragana form ひきかえす is often used in more informal texts, while the kanji is preferred in formal or written contexts.

Variations and Contemporary Use

In contemporary Japanese, 「引き返す」 is often heard in contexts of travel and transportation, but also in discussions about personal or business decisions. In an era of rapid change, the idea of "turning back" is applicable not only physically but also mentally, when reviewing past actions or decisions already made. The ability to "hikikaesu" is regarded as a valuable skill in many cultures, demonstrating the courage to acknowledge mistakes and the willingness to reassess choices.

Vocabulary

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Verb conjugation of 引き返す

• 引き返す Base form
• 引き返せる Potential
• 引き返せ Imperative
• 引き返して Te-forma
• 引き返した Past

Synonyms and similar words

• 戻る (modoru) - return
• 折り返す (orikaesu) - Turn, fold, return (in a figurative sense, like a phone call)
• 反転する (hanten suru) - Inverter, revert (change of direction)
• 逆戻りする (gyakumodori suru) - Go back, revert to a previous state