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元に戻る
moto ni modoru
go back to the original state
元の位置に戻ってください。
Please return to your original position.
neutral
To return to a previous state or condition, often after a change or disruption.
システムを再起動すると、設定が元に戻ってしまった。
After restarting the system, the settings reverted to their original state.
元に戻るまでに時間がかかります。
It will take time to go back to the way things were.
Commonly used in technical, personal, and business contexts to describe reverting to a prior condition.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Common Mistake Avoidance
Avoid using '元に戻る' when describing physical movement (e.g., 'go back to the starting point'). Use '戻る' or '戻ってくる' instead. '元に戻る' is primarily used for abstract or state-based returns.
Gold Rule
State vs. Movement
'元に戻る' emphasizes a return to a prior state or condition, not a physical location. For example, 'The software settings reverted to default' (設定が元に戻った) is correct, while 'I returned to the office' (事務所に戻った) is not.
Word Origin
The phrase combines '元' (moto, meaning 'origin' or 'original state') with '戻る' (modoru, meaning 'to return'). It reflects the concept of returning to a baseline condition after a deviation.
Usage Notes
This phrase is often used in contexts where something has been altered temporarily (e.g., system settings, personal habits, or project phases) and needs to revert. It implies a return to a neutral or initial state rather than a forward progression.
Word Breakdown
元
origin, original state
nounに
to (indicates direction or state)
particle戻る
to return, revert
verb和英辞典