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Phrasal verbs "back down" vs "back off"

Differences between back down and back off

Back down means to withdraw from a position or a conflict, especially when you realize you cannot win or succeed. On the other hand, back off means to move away from someone or something, usually because you feel threatened or intimidated.

Meanings and Definitions: back down vs back off

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Back down

  • 1Retract or withdraw your position or proposal in an argument.

    She refused to BACK DOWN and was fired.

Back off

  • 1Retreat.

    The police told the protesters to BACK OFF.

Usage Examples: back down, back off in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

back down

Example

He decided to back down after realizing he was wrong.

Example

She never backs down from a challenge.

back off

Example

When the dog started barking, I decided to back off.

Example

She backs off when she realizes she's getting too close.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Back down

give in

To yield or surrender to someone else's demands or wishes.

Example

After hours of negotiation, he finally decided to give in to their demands and sign the contract.

retreat

To withdraw or move back from a position or a conflict.

Example

The army was forced to retreat after facing heavy resistance from the enemy forces.

concede

To admit or acknowledge that something is true or valid, especially after initially denying or resisting it.

Example

He had to concede that his opponent's argument was stronger and more convincing than his own.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Back off

step back

To move away from someone or something, especially to create some distance or avoid a confrontation.

Example

She had to step back from the situation and take a deep breath to calm herself down.

give space

To allow someone to have their own personal space or time, especially when they need it.

Example

He knew he had to give her space and not push her to talk about the issue until she was ready.

back away

To move away from someone or something slowly and cautiously, especially when feeling threatened or scared.

Example

The dog started barking loudly, so I had to back away slowly to avoid any potential danger.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “back”

Phrasal Verbs with “down”

Differences in back down vs back off: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: back down or back off?

Both back down and back off are commonly used in everyday conversations. However, back off is more frequently used in informal settings, while back down can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of back down and back off

Back down is more formal than back off. It is often used in professional or academic settings, such as negotiations or debates. Back off, on the other hand, is an informal phrase that is more suitable for casual conversations with friends and family.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of back down and back off

The tone of back down and back off can differ based on context. Back down often carries a sense of defeat or surrender, while back off typically has a defensive or protective tone, especially when referring to physical space or personal boundaries.

back down & back off: Synonyms and Antonyms

Back down

Antonyms

Back off

Synonyms

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