折り返し

• Reading: おりかえし
• Romaji: orikaeshi
• Kanji breakdown: 折 (ori) — fold, break; 返 (kaeshi) — return, go back
• Pronunciation: /o.ɾi.ka.e.ɕi/

Meaning

By return; without delay; right back. Used especially for returning calls, emails, or replies promptly.

An adverb and noun most commonly encountered in the phrase 折り返し電話する (to call back right away) or 折り返しご連絡ください (please get back to us). In business Japanese, it implies a prompt response rather than a delayed one. Also has literal meanings of folding back (fabric, paper) or a return trip on a transportation route.

Examples

1. 折り返しお電話いただけますか。 Could you please call me back?
2. 確認でき次第、折り返しご連絡いたします。 We will get back to you as soon as we have confirmed.
3. 担当者が戻り次第折り返しお電話させます。 We will have the person in charge call you back as soon as they return.

Usage Guide

Context: business, phone calls, customer service, email

Tone: polite

Origin & History

From 折り (ori, to fold) + 返し (kaeshi, to return). Literally 'folding back,' like cloth being folded on itself. The image of turning back immediately gave rise to the sense of a prompt reply or return action.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Universal