Spanish Phrase
¿Se devuelve el depósito?
Meaning
This question asks whether the security deposit will be given back to the speaker. It is neutral in tone and can be used in formal or informal settings when discussing rentals, purchases, or any situation that involves a refundable deposit.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to confirm if a deposit you paid (for an apartment, a car rental, a service, etc.) will be returned after the contract ends or the service is completed.
✦Grammar Breakdown
¿Sedevuelveeldepósito?
Se (pasiva refleja)
The pronoun 'se' creates a passive construction, indicating that the action happens to the subject without specifying who performs it.
devuelve (presente indicativo)
Third‑person singular present of 'devolver', meaning 'to return' or 'to give back'.
el depósito (noun phrase)
Definite article + masculine noun meaning 'the deposit' (often a security deposit).
🗨In Conversation
¿Se devuelve el depósito al final del contrato?
Is the deposit returned at the end of the contract?
Sí, siempre que no haya daños en la propiedad.
Yes, as long as there is no damage to the property.
✕Common Mistakes
¿Se devuelves el depósito?
Use third‑person singular 'devuelve' because the subject is implicit (the deposit). 'Devuelves' is second‑person singular.
El depósito se devuelve?
While understandable, the typical word order for a question is '¿Se devuelve el depósito?'. Placing the subject before the verb sounds like a statement turned into a question with rising intonation, which is less natural.
¿Se devuelve la depósito?
The noun 'depósito' is masculine, so the correct article is 'el', not 'la'.
↔Alternatives
¿Me devuelven el depósito?
Will you give me back the deposit?
¿Se reembolsa el depósito?
Is the deposit reimbursed?
¿El depósito será devuelto?
Will the deposit be returned?
Cultural Tip
In many Spanish‑speaking countries the word 'fianza' is often used instead of 'depósito' when referring to a security deposit for rentals. Both are understood, but 'fianza' sounds a bit more formal. Also, the passive 'se devuelve' is common in written or formal spoken Spanish; in casual conversation you might hear '¿Me devuelven el depósito?' which directly involves the speaker.