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Phrasal verbs "back out" vs "reach out"

Differences between back out and reach out

Back out means to withdraw from a commitment or promise, while reach out means to make contact with someone, usually for help or support.

Meanings and Definitions: back out vs reach out

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.

Reach out

  • 1Stretch your arm to get something.

    I REACHED OUT and caught the ball.

Usage Examples: back out, reach out 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.

reach out

Example

She reached out to grab the book on the top shelf.

Example

He reaches out to touch the painting.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Back out

renege on

To fail to fulfill a promise or commitment.

Example

He reneged on his promise to help me move, leaving me to do it alone.

pull out

To withdraw from a situation or commitment.

Example

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

chicken out

To decide not to do something because of fear or lack of courage.

Example

He chickened out of asking her to prom, even though he had been planning it for weeks.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Reach out

get in touch with

To communicate with someone, usually after a period of time.

Example

I need to get in touch with my old college roommate and catch up on life.

extend a hand

To offer help or support to someone in need.

Example

The community rallied together to extend a hand to the victims of the natural disaster.

make contact

To establish communication or connection with someone.

Example

The sales team needs to make contact with potential clients to promote their new product line.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “reach”

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: back out or reach out?

In daily conversation, people use reach out more often than back out. This is because reach out is used in various contexts, such as networking, customer service, and emotional support. Back out is less common and usually used in situations where someone cancels a plan or breaks a promise.

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

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

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

The tone of back out and reach out can differ based on context. Back out often carries a negative or disappointed tone when related to breaking a promise or canceling plans, while reach out typically has a positive and supportive tone, especially when referring to seeking help or offering assistance.

back out & reach out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Reach out

Antonyms

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