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"Write back" is an intransitive verb phrase which is often translated as "contestar", and "get back" is an intransitive verb phrase which is often translated as "volver". Learn more about the difference between "write back" and "get back" below.
write back(
rayt
bahk
)An intransitive verb phrase is a phrase that combines a verb with a preposition or other particle and does not require a direct object (e.g., Everybody please stand up.).
a. contestar
Irene began to worry when her fiancee didn't write back from the war.Irene empezó a preocuparse cuando su prometido que estaba en la guerra dejó de contestarle.
b. responder
Eduardo, you still need to write back to your pen pal in the United States.Eduardo, todavía has de responderle a tu amigo por correspondencia de Estados Unidos.
get back(
giht
bahk
)An intransitive verb phrase is a phrase that combines a verb with a preposition or other particle and does not require a direct object (e.g., Everybody please stand up.).
1. (to return)
2. (to go back)
a. volver
Our parents told us to get back under the shelter because it was raining.Nuestros padres nos dijeron que volviéramos debajo de la marquesina porque estaba lloviendo.
3. (to retreat)
a. retroceder
The policeman told the demontrators to get back.El policía les dijo a los manifestantes que retrocedieran.
A transitive verb phrase is a phrase that combines a verb with a preposition or other particle and requires a direct object (e.g., take out the trash.).
4. (to regain)
5. (to return)
a. devolver
I have to get this book back to the library before Saturday.Tengo que devolver este libro a la biblioteca antes del sábado.
a. volver a poner
I can't reach the shelf. Can you help me get this clock back up there?No puedo alcanzar la estantería. ¿Me ayudas a volver a poner este reloj allí?
a. volver con
If you want to get him back, you'll have to mend your ways.Si quieres conseguir que vuelva contigo, tendrás que enmendarte.
b. reconquistar
You'll never get her back now. She's got a new boyfriend.Ya no vas a poder reconquistarla, tiene un nuevo novio.
8. (colloquial) (to have revenge on)
A word or phrase that is commonly used in conversational speech (e.g., skinny, grandma).
a. vengarse de
Don't worry, he's not going to get away with it. I'll get him back later.No te preocupes, que esto no va a quedar así. Me voy a vengar de él más tarde.
