Differences between back out and spit out
Back out means to withdraw from a commitment or promise, while spit out means to forcefully eject something from your mouth.
Meanings and Definitions: back out vs spit 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.
Spit out
- 1Say something angrily.
He SPAT her name OUT when he saw her arrive.
Usage Examples: back out, spit 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.
spit out
Example
She spit out the truth when she couldn't hold it in any longer.
Example
He spits out his words when he's angry.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Back out
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Spit out
To bring back up undigested food or liquid from the stomach to the mouth.
Example
The mother bird regurgitated the food for her chicks to eat.
cough up
To forcefully expel something from the throat or lungs.
Example
He had to cough up the piece of meat that got stuck in his throat.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “spit”
Phrasal Verbs with “out”
- pull out
- sound out
- muscle out
- filter out
- flounce out
Differences in back out vs spit out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: back out or spit out?
In daily conversation, people use back out more often than spit out. This is because back out is used in various contexts such as social events, business deals, and personal relationships. On the other hand, spit out is mainly used when referring to food or liquids that are forcefully ejected from the mouth. So, while both phrases are used, back out is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of back out and spit out
Back out and spit out 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 spit out
The tone of back out and spit out can differ based on context. Back out often carries a regretful or apologetic tone when related to withdrawing from a commitment or promise, while spit out typically has a disgusted or forceful tone, especially when referring to ejecting something from the mouth.