What it means
てくる combines a verb's て-form with くる to mean doing an action and then returning to the current place or speaker. It is often used when someone goes somewhere, completes a task, and comes back. The auxiliary くる changes for politeness, while the first verb remains in the て-form.
Usage note
Do not confuse this use of てくる with another meaning of てくる, which describes a change or action that has continued up to the present. The surrounding context shows which meaning is intended.
How to use it
図書館で本を借りてきます。
I will borrow a book at the library and come back.
図書館で本を借りてくる。
I will borrow a book at the library and come back.
Example sentences
授業の前に、図書館で本を返してきました。
Before class, I went to the library, returned the book, and came back.
昼休みに郵便局へ行って、荷物を出してきます。
During my lunch break, I will go to the post office, send a package, and come back.
駅で切符を買ってきます。
I will buy a ticket at the station and come back.