Differences between claw back and look back
Claw back means to regain something that was lost or taken away, often through effort or force. Look back means to reflect on past events or memories.
Meanings and Definitions: claw back vs look back
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Claw back
- 1Get money back.
The new tax will CLAW BACK what the government has given out in grants.
- 2Retake possession with difficulty.
The opposition parties are trying to CLAW BACK the voters they lost in the last election.
- 3Regain possession with difficulty.
They are CLAWING BACK their market share from their competitors.
Look back
- 1Think about the past.
Old people often LOOK BACK on over their lives.
Usage Examples: claw back, look back in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
claw back
Example
The company is trying to claw back its lost profits.
Example
She claws back the money she lent to her friend.
look back
Example
When I look back on my childhood, I have many happy memories.
Example
She often looks back on her college days with fondness.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Claw back
To regain something that was lost or taken away.
Example
After losing his job, he worked hard to recover his financial stability.
To regain possession of something that was lost or misplaced.
Example
She had to go back to the office to retrieve her forgotten phone charger.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look back
To indulge in enjoyable recollection of past events or memories.
Example
As they sat by the fireplace, they reminisced about their childhood adventures.
To remember past events or experiences.
Example
He struggled to recall the details of the accident that happened years ago.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “look”
Phrasal Verbs with “back”
- go back
- hold back
- sit back
- bounce back
- kick back
Differences in claw back vs look back: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: claw back or look back?
In everyday conversation, look back is more common than claw back. This is because reflecting on the past is a common topic in conversations, while regaining something lost is less common. However, claw back is still used in certain contexts such as business or politics.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of claw back and look back
Claw back and look back are both informal phrases suitable for casual conversations. However, claw back can be used in more formal settings such as legal or financial contexts.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of claw back and look back
The tone of claw back is often forceful or determined, while look back has a more reflective or nostalgic tone.
