Phrasal verbs "double as" vs "double back"

Differences between double as and double back

Double as means to have two different functions or purposes, while double back means to turn around and go back in the opposite direction.

Meanings and Definitions: double as vs double back

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Double as

  • 1Have a second function or purpose.

    My study DOUBLES AS a spare bedroom when we have visitors.

Double back

  • 1Go back the way you were coming.

    When he saw the police, he DOUBLED BACK and went home.

Usage Examples: double as, double back in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

double as

Example

This sofa doubles as a bed for guests.

Example

Her office doubles as a meeting room when needed.

double back

Example

When she realized she forgot her wallet, she had to double back to her house.

Example

He doubles back when he notices he is going in the wrong direction.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Double as

To function as or be used for a particular purpose or role.

Example

Her living room serves as a home office during the day and a cozy lounge area at night.

To perform the role or function of something or someone.

Example

The teacher acted as a mediator between the students who had a disagreement.

To work or operate as a particular thing or in a specific way.

Example

The new smartphone functions as a camera, music player, and GPS device.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Double back

To change direction and face the opposite way.

Example

When she realized she forgot her phone at home, she had to turn around and go back to get it.

retrace one's steps

To go back along the same path or route that one has just taken.

Example

After realizing he left his wallet at the restaurant, he had to retrace his steps to find it.

To go back on a decision, statement, or action.

Example

The politician had to backtrack on his controversial remarks after facing public backlash.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “double”

Phrasal Verbs with “as”

Differences in double as vs double back: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: double as or double back?

In daily conversation, people use double as more often than double back. This is because double as is used to describe objects or people that serve multiple purposes, which is a common occurrence. Double back is less common and is mainly used when someone needs to retrace their steps or change their direction.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of double as and double back

Double as and double back are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, double back may be slightly more formal because it is less commonly used.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of double as and double back

The tone of double as and double back can differ based on context. Double as typically has a positive or neutral tone, emphasizing the versatility or usefulness of something or someone. On the other hand, double back can have a negative or cautious tone, suggesting that someone made a mistake or needs to backtrack.

double as & double back: Synonyms and Antonyms

Double as

Synonyms

  • serve as
  • function as
  • act as
  • operate as
  • work as
  • perform as

Antonyms

Double back

Synonyms

Antonyms

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