devuelve
/deh-BWEL-beh/
returns
Devolver can mean giving back a physical object, like returning a book.
devuelve(verb)
returns
?giving back a physical object
,gives back
?returning something borrowed
return (command)
?telling someone to give something back
📝 In Action
Él devuelve los libros a la biblioteca.
A1He returns the books to the library.
¡Devuelve mi teléfono ahora mismo!
A2Give back my phone right now!
💡 Grammar Points
The 'O' to 'UE' Change
In the present tense, the 'o' in the middle of the word changes to 'ue' whenever you stress that syllable. This is why we say 'devolvemos' but 'devuelve'.
Two-in-One Word
'Devuelve' can mean both 'he/she returns' and 'Return it!' (a command). The context of the conversation will tell you which one it is.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Devolver vs. Volver
Mistake: "Using 'volver' to mean giving back an object."
Correction: Use 'volver' for people returning to a place, and 'devolver' for giving back an item. Say 'él devuelve el libro,' not 'él vuelve el libro.'
⭐ Usage Tips
Returning money
Use 'devuelve' specifically when you are at a store returning a product for a refund.
Devolver also refers to reciprocating a gesture, such as returning a wave.
📝 In Action
Ella siempre me devuelve la llamada.
B1She always returns my call.
Si le sonríes, él te devuelve la sonrisa.
B1If you smile at him, he returns the smile.
💡 Grammar Points
Social Reciprocity
Use this word to describe 'bouncing back' an action or emotion that someone else started.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: devuelve
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence means 'Return the book to me!'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'devuelve' mean 'he returns' from a trip?
No. For a person returning from a trip, use 'vuelve'. 'Devuelve' is specifically for returning an object or a gesture.