Phrasal verbs "back out" vs "back out of"

Differences between back out and back out of

Back out means to withdraw from a commitment or promise, while back out of means to withdraw from a physical space or situation.

Meanings and Definitions: back out vs back out of

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Back out

  • 1Fail to keep an arrangement or promise.

    He BACKED OUT two days before the holiday so we gave the ticket to his sister.

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 out, back out of in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

back out

Example

She promised to help me, but she backed out at the last minute.

Example

He always backs out of plans at the last minute.

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 out

To decide not to attend an event or meeting that was previously arranged.

Example

I had to cancel my plans with my friends because I got sick.

To break a commitment or agreement that was previously made.

Example

He reneged on his promise to help me move to a new apartment.

To decide not to do something because of fear or anxiety.

Example

I wanted to try bungee jumping, but I chickened out at the last minute.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Back out of

To remove oneself from a situation or group.

Example

She decided to withdraw from the competition due to personal reasons.

To move away from a dangerous or unpleasant situation.

Example

The soldiers were forced to retreat from the battlefield due to heavy enemy fire.

To withdraw from a commitment or situation, often suddenly or unexpectedly.

Example

The company decided to pull out of the project due to financial concerns.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

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Differences in back out vs back out of: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: back out or back out of?

In daily conversation, people use back out more often than back out of. This is because back out is used for more social situations such as canceling plans or breaking promises. Back out of is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about physically leaving a place or situation. So, while both phrases are used, back out is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of back out and back out of

Back out and back out of are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of back out and back out of

The tone of back out and back out of can differ based on context. Back out often carries a regretful or apologetic tone when related to breaking a promise or canceling plans, while back out of typically has a practical and urgent tone, especially when referring to leaving a physical space or situation.

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