When it comes to showing gratitude and making a positive impact, knowing the right slang for give back can make all the difference. Whether you’re looking to volunteer, donate, or simply spread kindness, we’ve got you covered. Join us as we unveil a list of trendy phrases that capture the essence of giving back in today’s world. Let’s make a difference together!
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1. Tit for tat
This phrase refers to an action or response that is given in return for something received. It implies a fair and equal exchange.
- For example, if someone helps you move, you might say, “I’ll help you next time. It’s tit for tat.”
- In a negotiation, one party might say, “If you lower the price, we can agree on a tit for tat compromise.”
- A friend might jokingly say, “You didn’t invite me to your party? Well, tit for tat, I won’t invite you to mine either.”
2. Reimburse
To reimburse means to repay or compensate someone for expenses or losses incurred. It involves giving back money or making up for something.
- For instance, if a company overcharges you, they should reimburse you for the excess amount.
- If you lend a friend money, you might ask, “When can you reimburse me?”
- A traveler might say, “The airline lost my luggage, but they promised to reimburse me for the inconvenience.”
3. Compensate
To compensate means to make up for something, often by providing an equivalent or suitable substitute or by giving something in return.
- For example, if a flight is delayed, the airline might compensate passengers with a voucher for future travel.
- If you miss a meal at a restaurant, the staff might offer to compensate by giving you a free dessert.
- A company might compensate an employee for working overtime by giving them extra time off.
4. Retribute
Retribute refers to the act of seeking revenge or paying someone back for a perceived wrong or harm.
- For instance, if someone steals from you, you might want to retribute by taking something of theirs.
- In a conflict, one party might say, “I’ll retribute for what you’ve done to me.”
- A character in a movie might seek retribution by avenging a loved one’s death.
5. Remunerate
To remunerate means to reward or compensate someone for their work, effort, or services rendered.
- For example, an employer should remunerate their employees with fair wages.
- If you hire a freelancer, you should remunerate them for their time and expertise.
- A company might remunerate a customer for their loyalty by offering exclusive discounts.
6. Requite
To repay someone or return a favor or kindness.
- For example, “I will requite your generosity by helping you with your project.”
- A person might say, “I feel the need to requite your kindness by treating you to dinner.”
- In a discussion about gratitude, someone might mention, “It’s important to requite acts of kindness to maintain healthy relationships.”
7. Recompense
To compensate or make amends for something.
- For instance, “The company offered to recompense the customers for the faulty product.”
- In a conversation about fairness, someone might argue, “Those who have been wronged deserve recompense.”
- A person might say, “I will recompense you for your time and effort in helping me.”
8. Give back
To contribute or do something positive for others or the community.
- For example, “I want to give back to my community by volunteering at a local shelter.”
- In a discussion about philanthropy, someone might say, “It’s important for successful individuals to give back to society.”
- A person might mention, “I feel a sense of fulfillment when I give back to those in need.”
9. Hand back
To return something to its original owner or source.
- For instance, “Please hand back the book once you’re done reading it.”
- In a conversation about borrowing, someone might say, “I will hand back your pen tomorrow.”
- A person might ask, “Can you hand back my phone? I left it on the table.”
10. Pay off
To settle a debt or fulfill a commitment.
- For example, “I finally paid off my student loans after years of hard work.”
- In a discussion about investments, someone might mention, “It’s satisfying when your long-term investments pay off.”
- A person might say, “I’m confident that all my efforts will pay off in the end.”
11. Settle up
To settle up means to pay off a debt or to pay for something that is owed. It can also refer to resolving a disagreement or reaching a compromise.
- For example, “I need to settle up with my friend for the concert tickets.”
- In a business context, someone might say, “Let’s settle up on the outstanding invoices.”
- A person might use this phrase to resolve a dispute by saying, “Let’s settle up and put this disagreement behind us.”
12. Make amends
To make amends means to take action to repair a relationship or situation after causing harm or offense. It involves acknowledging the wrongdoing and taking steps to make things right.
- For instance, “He apologized and promised to make amends for his hurtful words.”
- In a personal conflict, someone might say, “I want to make amends and rebuild our friendship.”
- A person might use this phrase to express their intention to rectify a mistake by saying, “I’m determined to make amends for my past actions.”
13. Repay
To repay means to give back or return something, typically money or a favor, that was received or owed to someone else. It involves fulfilling an obligation or showing gratitude.
- For example, “I need to repay my friend for lending me money.”
- In a situation where someone helped you, you might say, “I want to repay your kindness.”
- A person might use this word to express their intention to reciprocate a favor by saying, “I’ll find a way to repay you for your help.”
14. Give a hand
To give a hand means to offer help or assistance to someone. It involves lending a helping hand or providing support.
- For instance, “Can you give me a hand with these groceries?”
- In a team project, someone might say, “Let’s all give a hand and finish this task together.”
- A person might use this phrase to ask for help by saying, “Could you give me a hand with this problem?”
15. Pass it on
To pass it on means to share or give something to someone else after receiving it. It involves passing along a message, an item, or a favor to another person.
- For example, “I received some good advice, and now I want to pass it on to others.”
- In a chain of favors, someone might say, “I’ll pass it on to the next person in line.”
- A person might use this phrase to encourage others to share by saying, “If you have something valuable, pass it on and spread the goodness.”
16. Share the love
This phrase is often used to encourage people to be kind and generous to others, to share their love and support.
- For example, “Let’s all share the love and donate to a local charity.”
- A person might say, “I received so much help when I was going through a tough time, now it’s my turn to share the love.”
- In a social media post, someone might write, “Feeling grateful for all the support I’ve received, time to share the love and give back to my community.”
17. Do a solid
This slang phrase means to do a favor for someone or help them out in a time of need.
- For instance, “Hey, can you do me a solid and pick up my package from the post office?”
- A person might say, “I owe him a solid, he helped me move last weekend.”
- In a conversation, someone might ask, “Could you do me a solid and cover my shift tomorrow?”
18. Pay forward
This phrase means to do something kind or helpful for someone as a way of repaying a previous act of kindness.
- For example, “I received a scholarship when I was in college, now I want to pay it forward and help other students.”
- A person might say, “Someone paid for my coffee in line, so I decided to pay it forward and buy the coffee for the person behind me.”
- In a discussion about acts of kindness, someone might mention, “Paying it forward is a great way to create a chain of positivity and generosity.”
19. Give in return
This phrase means to give or do something in response to a previous act of kindness or favor received.
- For instance, “She helped me with my project, so I gave in return by helping her with her presentation.”
- A person might say, “I can’t thank you enough for your support, but I’ll try to give in return by being there for you when you need it.”
- In a conversation, someone might say, “I want to give in return for all the help you’ve given me, how can I support you?”
20. Repay the kindness
This phrase means to show gratitude and appreciation by returning or reciprocating a previous act of kindness.
- For example, “I can never repay the kindness she showed me, but I’ll do my best to show my gratitude.”
- A person might say, “I want to repay the kindness you’ve shown me by helping you achieve your goals.”
- In a discussion about gratitude, someone might mention, “Repaying the kindness we receive is a way to create a cycle of positivity and goodwill.”
21. Give a little back
This phrase is used to encourage someone to contribute or help in some way, often in a small or modest manner. It implies that the person has received something and should now give back to show gratitude or support.
- For example, a charity might say, “Please give a little back to help those in need.”
- A friend might ask, “Can you give a little back and help me move this weekend?”
- In a community service project, someone might say, “Let’s all give a little back and make a positive impact.”
22. Return the kindness
This phrase is used to encourage someone to repay a kind act or gesture they have received. It emphasizes the idea of reciprocating kindness and showing gratitude.
- For instance, if someone helps you with a project, you might say, “I’ll return the kindness and help you with your next project.”
- If a friend buys you lunch, you might say, “I’ll return the kindness and treat you next time.”
- In a situation where someone has done something nice for you, you might say, “I want to return the kindness and do something nice for them in return.”
23. Help out
This phrase is used to ask for or offer assistance or aid to someone. It implies that the person needs help with something and is seeking support from others.
- For example, if someone is moving, they might ask, “Can you help out with packing and lifting?”
- A coworker might say, “I can help out with that project if you need it.”
- In a volunteer opportunity, someone might say, “We need people to help out at the food bank this weekend.”
24. Pass along
This phrase is used to describe the act of sharing or transferring something to someone else. It implies that the person has received something and is now passing it on to someone else.
- For instance, if someone gives you a book they enjoyed, you might say, “I’ll pass it along to someone else when I’m done.”
- If someone gives you helpful advice, you might say, “I’ll pass it along to my friends who could use it.”
- In a chain of favors, someone might say, “I received help from someone else, so I want to pass it along and help someone else in need.”
25. Do a favor
This phrase is used to describe the act of performing a helpful act for someone. It implies that the person is doing something kind or beneficial for someone else.
- For example, if a friend asks for a ride, you might say, “Sure, I can do you a favor and give you a lift.”
- If someone needs help with a project, you might say, “I can do you a favor and assist you with that.”
- In a situation where someone asks for assistance, you might say, “I’ll do you a favor and lend a hand.”
26. Show appreciation
This phrase is used to encourage people to acknowledge and express gratitude for the help or support they receive from others.
- For example, “Don’t forget to show appreciation to your teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week.”
- A person might say, “I want to show my appreciation for all the hard work you put into this project.”
- In a thank-you note, someone might write, “I wanted to take a moment to show my appreciation for your kindness and support.”
27. Lend a hand
This slang phrase means to help or assist someone in need.
- For instance, “If you see someone struggling, don’t hesitate to lend a hand.”
- A person might say, “I’m always willing to lend a hand to a friend in need.”
- In a conversation about volunteering, someone might suggest, “Why not join a local charity and lend a hand to those less fortunate?”
28. Be generous
This phrase encourages individuals to be giving and open-hearted, especially when it comes to helping others or donating.
- For example, “During the holiday season, it’s important to be generous and give back to the community.”
- A person might say, “I try to be generous with my time and resources.”
- When discussing philanthropy, someone might mention, “Being generous can have a positive impact on both the giver and the recipient.”
29. Spread kindness
This slang phrase encourages individuals to actively engage in acts of kindness and spread positivity.
- For instance, “Let’s all make an effort to spread kindness and make the world a better place.”
- A person might say, “I believe in the power of spreading kindness and uplifting others.”
- In a discussion about random acts of kindness, someone might suggest, “Why not start a movement to spread kindness in our community?”
30. Be altruistic
This phrase emphasizes the importance of selflessly helping others without expecting anything in return.
- For example, “Being altruistic means putting the needs of others before your own.”
- A person might say, “I strive to be altruistic and make a positive impact on the lives of those around me.”
- In a conversation about volunteering, someone might mention, “Volunteering is a great way to practice altruism and give back to the community.”
31. Do good deeds
This phrase refers to performing acts of kindness or helpful actions for others without expecting anything in return. It emphasizes the importance of doing positive actions to benefit others.
- For example, “I try to do good deeds every day, like helping an elderly neighbor with their groceries.”
- A person might say, “It’s important to do good deeds to make the world a better place.”
- Someone might encourage others by saying, “Let’s all do good deeds and spread positivity in our community.”
32. Be charitable
This phrase means to engage in acts of charity or to give to those in need. It emphasizes the importance of being generous and helping others.
- For instance, “During the holiday season, many people choose to be charitable and donate to local charities.”
- A person might say, “Being charitable is a great way to give back to the community.”
- Someone might encourage others by saying, “Let’s all be charitable and make a difference in someone’s life.”
33. Give back to the community
This phrase means to contribute or give back to the community in some way. It emphasizes the importance of actively participating and making a positive impact on the community.
- For example, “Volunteering at a local shelter is a great way to give back to the community.”
- A person might say, “I believe it’s important to give back to the community that has supported us.”
- Someone might encourage others by saying, “Let’s all give back to our community and make it a better place for everyone.”
34. Show gratitude
This phrase means to express appreciation and thanks to others. It emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and being grateful for the help or support received.
- For instance, “I always make sure to show gratitude to those who have helped me in my journey.”
- A person might say, “Showing gratitude is a simple way to give back to those who have made a difference in our lives.”
- Someone might encourage others by saying, “Let’s all show gratitude and appreciate the people who have been there for us.”
35. Help out in return
This phrase means to assist or help someone in return for previous help received. It emphasizes the idea of reciprocating kindness and helping others who have helped us.
- For example, “When my friend needed a favor, I was happy to help out in return for all the times they have helped me.”
- A person might say, “Helping out in return is a way to show appreciation and give back to those who have supported us.”
- Someone might encourage others by saying, “Let’s all help out in return and create a cycle of kindness and support.”
36. Respond in kind
This phrase means to respond to someone’s kindness or favor by doing something similar in return. It emphasizes the idea of reciprocity and acknowledging the help received.
- For example, if someone helps you move, you can respond in kind by helping them with a task they need assistance with.
- In a conversation about gratitude, someone might say, “When someone does something nice for you, it’s important to respond in kind.”
- If a friend buys you lunch, you can respond in kind by treating them to a meal on another occasion.
37. Acknowledge the help
This phrase means to express gratitude and show appreciation for the help or support someone has provided. It emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the assistance received.
- For instance, if someone gives you advice, you can acknowledge the help by saying, “Thank you for your guidance.”
- In a discussion about teamwork, someone might mention the significance of acknowledging the help of others in achieving a common goal.
- If a coworker goes out of their way to assist you with a project, it’s important to acknowledge their help and express your gratitude.
38. Return the good deed
This phrase means to reciprocate a good deed or act of kindness that someone has done for you. It emphasizes the idea of returning the favor and continuing the cycle of positive actions.
- For example, if someone helps you fix your car, you can return the good deed by assisting them with a task they need help with.
- In a conversation about community support, someone might mention the importance of returning the good deeds of others to create a supportive environment.
- If a neighbor lends you a gardening tool, you can return the good deed by offering to help them with their own gardening tasks.
39. Pay it back
This phrase means to repay or compensate someone for a favor or act of kindness they have done for you. It emphasizes the idea of reciprocation and fulfilling a debt of gratitude.
- For instance, if someone lends you money, you can pay it back by returning the borrowed amount.
- In a discussion about the importance of gratitude, someone might mention the significance of paying it back to those who have helped you along the way.
- If a friend does you a favor, it’s important to find a way to pay it back and show your appreciation.
40. Give something in return
This phrase means to provide something of value or perform an action in exchange for a favor or act of kindness received. It emphasizes the idea of reciprocity and giving back in a meaningful way.
- For example, if someone gives you a gift, you can give something in return to show your appreciation.
- In a conversation about gratitude, someone might mention the importance of giving something in return as a way of expressing thanks.
- If a colleague helps you with a project, you can give something in return by assisting them with a task they need help with.
41. Do someone a favor
This phrase means to do something kind or helpful for someone without expecting anything in return. It is often used to describe small acts of kindness or assistance.
- For example, “Can you do me a favor and pick up my dry cleaning?”
- A friend might say, “I’ll do you a favor and watch your dog while you’re on vacation.”
- In a work setting, a colleague might ask, “Can you do me a favor and cover my shift tomorrow?”
42. Return the service
This phrase means to do something in return for someone who has done something for you. It implies an exchange of kindness or assistance.
- For instance, “He helped me move last weekend, so I’ll return the service and help him paint his house.”
- A person might say, “I always try to return the service when someone does something nice for me.”
- In a conversation about gratitude, someone might mention, “Returning the service is a way to show appreciation for someone’s help.”
43. Give back the favor
This phrase means to do something kind or helpful for someone in return for a previous act of kindness or assistance. It emphasizes the idea of reciprocating the favor.
- For example, “She lent me her car last week, so I want to give back the favor by helping her move.”
- A person might say, “I always try to give back the favor when someone does something nice for me.”
- In a discussion about gratitude, someone might mention, “Giving back the favor is a way to show gratitude and maintain positive relationships.”
44. Pay the debt of gratitude
This phrase means to show appreciation or thankfulness for someone’s help or kindness. It suggests that gratitude is like a debt that should be repaid.
- For instance, “I can never fully pay the debt of gratitude to my parents for all they’ve done for me.”
- A person might say, “I want to pay the debt of gratitude to my mentor by succeeding in my career.”
- In a conversation about gratitude, someone might mention, “Paying the debt of gratitude is important for maintaining strong relationships.”
45. Reciprocate the favor
This phrase means to do something in return for someone who has done something for you. It emphasizes the idea of reciprocation, or returning the favor.
- For example, “She helped me move last month, so I want to reciprocate the favor by cooking her dinner.”
- A person might say, “I always try to reciprocate the favor when someone does something nice for me.”
- In a discussion about gratitude, someone might mention, “Reciprocating the favor is a way to show appreciation and strengthen relationships.”
46. Make restitution
This phrase refers to making amends or compensating for a past mistake or wrongdoing. It often involves providing something of value or making reparations to the affected party.
- For example, someone who has stolen money might say, “I want to make restitution by repaying what I took.”
- In a legal context, a judge might order a criminal to “make restitution to the victims.”
- A person reflecting on their past actions might say, “I’ve learned from my mistakes and I’m ready to make restitution for the harm I’ve caused.”
47. Reimburse the kindness
This phrase suggests repaying or returning a kind gesture or favor that someone has done for you. It emphasizes the act of reciprocating kindness and acknowledging the efforts of others.
- For instance, if a friend helps you move, you might say, “I’ll reimburse the kindness by treating you to dinner.”
- When someone goes out of their way to help, you might express gratitude by saying, “I want to reimburse the kindness by offering my assistance in return.”
- A person might reflect on a previous act of kindness and say, “I realized I never reimbursed the kindness, so I reached out to express my gratitude.”
48. Give a helping hand back
This phrase emphasizes the act of offering assistance or support to someone who has previously helped you. It conveys the idea of reciprocating the favor and providing aid when it is needed.
- For example, if a friend has supported you during a difficult time, you might offer to give a helping hand back by being there for them when they need it.
- In a conversation about friendship, someone might say, “True friends always give a helping hand back.”
- A person might reflect on a time when they received help and say, “I want to give a helping hand back to those who have supported me.”
49. Do your part
This phrase encourages individuals to take responsibility and contribute to a larger goal or cause. It emphasizes the importance of each person doing their fair share and making a positive impact.
- For instance, in a team project, a leader might say, “Everyone needs to do their part to ensure the project’s success.”
- When discussing environmental conservation, someone might say, “We all need to do our part to reduce waste and protect the planet.”
- A person reflecting on their community involvement might say, “I feel a responsibility to do my part and give back to the community.”
50. Pitch in
This phrase suggests contributing one’s effort, resources, or skills to a group or cause. It conveys the idea of working together and cooperating to achieve a common goal.
- For example, in a volunteer event, participants might be asked to pitch in by helping with various tasks.
- When discussing a fundraising campaign, someone might say, “If everyone pitches in a little, we can make a big difference.”
- A person might reflect on a team project and say, “It was great to see everyone pitching in and working towards a shared objective.”
51. Give a helping hand
This phrase is used to describe the act of providing support or aid to someone in need. It implies lending a hand or offering help when it is needed.
- For example, “I always try to give a helping hand to my elderly neighbor by mowing her lawn.”
- In a conversation about community service, one might say, “We should all strive to give a helping hand to those less fortunate.”
- A person discussing the importance of teamwork might mention, “In order to succeed, we need to give a helping hand to our teammates.”
52. Be there for someone
This phrase means to be available and present for someone who needs emotional or practical support. It implies being a reliable source of comfort and assistance.
- For instance, “During tough times, it’s important to be there for someone and offer a listening ear.”
- In a discussion about friendship, one might say, “A true friend is always there for someone, no matter what.”
- A person discussing the role of family might mention, “Family should be there for someone unconditionally, providing love and support.”
53. Do a good turn
This phrase is used to describe the act of doing something kind or helpful for someone else without expecting anything in return. It implies performing a good deed or favor.
- For example, “I try to do a good turn for a stranger every day, whether it’s holding the door open or offering a compliment.”
- In a conversation about random acts of kindness, one might say, “It’s amazing how a simple gesture can do a good turn for someone’s day.”
- A person discussing the concept of paying it forward might mention, “When you do a good turn for someone, it inspires them to do the same for others.”
54. Contribute
This word means to give or provide something, often in the context of offering support, help, or resources. It implies making a positive contribution or giving back to a community or cause.
- For instance, “I try to contribute to my local food bank by donating non-perishable items.”
- In a discussion about teamwork, one might say, “Each team member needs to contribute their skills and expertise to achieve success.”
- A person discussing the importance of giving back to society might mention, “We should all strive to contribute to causes that are meaningful to us.”
55. Volunteer
This word refers to the act of offering one’s time, skills, or services for free to a cause or organization. It implies willingly and actively participating in activities or projects without expecting payment.
- For example, “I volunteer at a local animal shelter to help take care of the animals.”
- In a conversation about community involvement, one might say, “Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community and make a positive impact.”
- A person discussing the benefits of volunteering might mention, “Volunteering not only helps others, but it also provides personal fulfillment and a sense of purpose.”
56. Support
Support can come in many forms, such as emotional support, financial support, or moral support.
- For example, “She supported her friend during a difficult time.”
- A person might say, “I’ll always support you in your goals.”
- In a conversation about a charity organization, someone might mention, “They provide support to families in need.”
57. Give a leg up
To give someone a leg up means to help them get ahead or provide them with an advantage in a particular situation.
- For instance, “He gave his friend a leg up by recommending him for a job.”
- In a discussion about mentorship, someone might say, “A good mentor can give a leg up to their mentee.”
- A person might mention, “I want to give a leg up to underprivileged students by providing scholarships.”
58. Help someone out
To help someone out means to provide assistance or support to someone in need.
- For example, “Can you help me out with this heavy box?”
- A person might say, “I’ll help you out with your homework.”
- In a conversation about volunteering, someone might mention, “I love helping out at the local food bank.”
59. Be of service
To be of service means to be available and willing to provide assistance or help to others.
- For instance, “He is always ready to be of service to his community.”
- In a discussion about customer service, someone might say, “Our goal is to be of service to our customers.”
- A person might mention, “I want to be of service to those in need by volunteering my time.”
60. Extend a hand
To extend a hand means to offer help or support to someone in need.
- For example, “He extended a hand to his colleague who was struggling with a project.”
- A person might say, “I’m here to extend a hand if you need any assistance.”
- In a conversation about community outreach, someone might mention, “We aim to extend a hand to those who are less fortunate.”
61. Assist
To lend a hand or provide support to someone in need. “Assist” is a more formal term for giving aid or helping someone.
- For example, “Can you assist me with carrying these boxes?”
- In a team setting, someone might say, “I’ll assist you with the project.”
- A coach might instruct their players, “Remember to assist your teammates on the court.”
62. Be supportive
To show understanding, empathy, and encouragement to someone. Being supportive involves providing emotional or practical assistance to help someone through a difficult time.
- For instance, a friend might say, “I’m here for you. I’ll always be supportive.”
- A parent might tell their child, “I’m proud of you and will support you in whatever you choose.”
- A teacher might encourage their students, “I believe in you. Stay strong and keep going.”
63. Give a boost
To give someone a boost means to provide them with assistance or encouragement to help them succeed or feel better.
- For example, a friend might say, “You can do it! Let me give you a boost.”
- A coworker might offer, “I’ll give you a boost by sharing your work with the team.”
- A mentor might provide a boost by saying, “Believe in yourself. You have the skills to excel.”
64. Offer a hand
To offer a hand means to provide assistance or support to someone in need. It implies reaching out and offering help willingly.
- For instance, a neighbor might say, “If you ever need anything, don’t hesitate to ask. I’m here to offer a hand.”
- A colleague might offer, “I see you’re struggling. Let me offer a hand and help you with that.”
- A stranger might say, “I noticed you dropped something. Can I offer a hand and pick it up for you?”
65. Be a good neighbor
To be a good neighbor means to be kind, considerate, and helpful to those who live nearby. It involves being a positive presence and offering assistance when needed.
- For example, a good neighbor might offer to water their neighbor’s plants while they’re away.
- They might lend a tool or provide a listening ear when their neighbor needs someone to talk to.
- A good neighbor might also organize a neighborhood cleanup or offer to shovel snow for an elderly neighbor.