Differences between back down and back out of
Back down means to withdraw from a position or a conflict, usually because of pressure or fear of consequences. Back out of means to withdraw from a commitment or an agreement, usually without a good reason.
Meanings and Definitions: back down vs back out of
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 out of
- 1Fail to keep an agreement, arrangement.
She BACKED OUT OF the agreement at the last minute.
- 2Exit a parking area in reverse gear.
She BACKED the Rolls OUT OF its parking space.
Usage Examples: back down, back out of 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 out of
Example
He promised to help, but he backed out of it at the last minute.
Example
She always backs out of her commitments.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Back down
To withdraw or move back from a position or a confrontation.
Example
The army was forced to retreat after facing heavy resistance from the enemy forces.
To acknowledge or accept something reluctantly, often after a dispute or an argument.
Example
He had to concede that he was wrong after his opponent presented strong evidence against his claim.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Back out of
To fail to keep a promise or an agreement, often causing inconvenience or disappointment to others.
Example
She had to break her commitment to attend the wedding due to unforeseen circumstances.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “back”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Phrasal Verbs with “out of”
Differences in back down vs back out of: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: back down or back out of?
Both back down and back out of are commonly used in everyday conversations, but back out of is slightly more common. This is because it's used for a wider range of situations such as canceling plans, breaking promises, or failing to meet obligations.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of back down and back out of
Both phrases are informal and can be used in casual conversations. However, back down can also be used in formal settings such as negotiations or debates, while back out of is mostly used in personal contexts.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of back down and back out of
The tone of back down and back out of can differ based on context. Back down often carries a negative connotation of surrender or weakness, while back out of can have a neutral or negative tone depending on the situation.
