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Phrasal verbs "back off" vs "back up"

Differences between back off and back up

Back off means to move away from someone or something, especially when you feel threatened or uncomfortable. On the other hand, back up means to move backward or to provide support or evidence for something.

Meanings and Definitions: back off vs back up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Back off

  • 1Retreat.

    The police told the protesters to BACK OFF.

Back up

  • 1Make a copy of computer data.

    You should always BACK UP important wrong with the hardware.

  • 2Support.

    The rest of the staff BACKED her UP when she complained about working conditions.

  • 3Drive a vehicle backwards.

    Tom BACKED UP without looking and ran over his laptop.

Usage Examples: back off, back up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

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.

back up

Example

I always back up my computer files every week.

Example

She backs up her phone data to the cloud.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Back off

give someone space

To allow someone to have physical or emotional distance from oneself.

Example

She asked him to give her some space after their argument to cool down and reflect.

step back

To physically or metaphorically move away from a situation or problem.

Example

He decided to step back from the project to avoid burnout and gain a fresh perspective.

ease up

To reduce or relax one's intensity or pressure on someone or something.

Example

The coach told the team to ease up on their training to prevent injuries and exhaustion.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Back up

support with evidence

To provide proof or data to validate a claim or argument.

Example

She was able to support her theory with evidence from various studies and experiments.

reinforce

To strengthen or make something more effective or resilient.

Example

The company decided to reinforce their cybersecurity measures to prevent data breaches and hacking attempts.

give backup

To provide assistance or support to someone in need.

Example

The police officers were able to give backup to their colleagues during the high-speed chase.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “back”

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: back off or back up?

In everyday conversation, back up is more commonly used than back off. This is because back up can be used in a variety of situations such as driving, technology, and providing evidence. Back off is more specific and is mainly used when someone feels uncomfortable or threatened.

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

Back off and back up are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations with friends and family. However, back up can also be used in more formal settings like business or academic contexts.

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

The tone of back off and back up can differ based on context. Back off often carries a defensive or aggressive tone when related to personal space or boundaries, while back up typically has a supportive or informative tone, especially when referring to providing evidence or assistance.

back off & back up: Synonyms and Antonyms

Back off

Synonyms

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