What are the definitions of “fall back on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Be able to use in an emergency.
bank to FALL BACK ON when I lost my job.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “fall back on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb fall back on is to rely on something or someone for support, especially in difficult situations or emergencies. It often refers to having a backup plan or a safety net to help you when things go wrong.
What are the different verb forms of “fall back on”?
| Root Verb | fall back on |
| Third Person Singular Present | falls back on |
| Present Participle | falling back on |
| Simple Past | fell back on |
| Past Participle | fallen back on |
Example
If I lose my job, I can fall back on my savings.
Example
She falls back on her family for support when times are tough.
Example
He is falling back on his previous experience to solve the problem.
Example
When the project failed, they fell back on their backup plan.
Example
In times of crisis, people have often fallen back on their communities for help.
What kind of phrasal verb is “fall back on”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“fall back on” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She fell back on her family for support.
Example
He fell back on his savings when he lost his job.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“fall back on” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She fell back on her family for support.
Example
He fell back on his savings when he lost his job.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “fall back on”?
To rely on one's previous knowledge or skills to handle a situation.
Example
When faced with a difficult decision, he fell back on his years of experience.
Good things to know
Does “fall back on” have an informal or formal tone?
Fall back on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
