返る

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 返る(かえる) means to return to an original position or turn back in direction.
• Basic usage: It is used for a ball bouncing back or a pushed door returning to its original position.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Different spelling from 帰る
  • Going home or returning to one's place is usually written 帰る(かえる). 返る is used for an object or movement returning or reversing.
• Returning toward this side
  • 返ってきた means came back. きた adds movement toward the speaker's side.