Phrasal verbs "double back" vs "get back"

Differences between double back and get back

Double back means to turn around and go back in the opposite direction, while get back means to return to a place or situation that you were in before.

Meanings and Definitions: double back vs get back

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Double back

  • 1Go back the way you were coming.

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

Get back

  • 1Return.

    The train was held up so we didn't GET BACK home until midnight.

  • 2Return something.

    Don't lend him any money; you'll never GET it BACK.

  • 3Revenge.

    He was rude and embarrassed me, but I'll GET him BACK.

  • 4Move away.

    The police told the crowd to GET BACK to allow the ambulance through.

Usage Examples: double back, get back in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

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.

get back

Example

I need to get back to work after lunch.

Example

She gets back from her vacation tomorrow.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Double back

To change direction and face the opposite way.

Example

He had to turn around and double back to get to the store he missed.

retrace one's steps

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

Example

After realizing he left his phone at the restaurant, he had to retrace his steps and double back to find it.

To retrace one's steps or go back along the same path.

Example

They had to backtrack and double back to find the trail they missed.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Get back

To come or go back to a place or situation that one was in before.

Example

After the vacation, it was time to return home and get back to work.

To return to a previous location or situation.

Example

She had to go back to the store to get the item she forgot.

To start again after a pause or interruption.

Example

After the break, it was time to resume the meeting and get back to the agenda.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “double”

Phrasal Verbs with “get”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: double back or get back?

In daily conversation, people use get back more often than double back. This is because get back is used for more common situations such as returning home or going back to work. Double back is not used as much, and it's mainly used when we're talking about changing direction or retracing our steps. So, while both phrases are used, get back is more common in everyday conversation.

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

Double back and get back 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 double back and get back

The tone of double back and get back can differ based on context. Double back often carries a sense of urgency or surprise when related to changing direction or retracing steps, while get back typically has a neutral tone, especially when referring to returning to a previous location or situation.

double back & get back: Synonyms and Antonyms

Double back

Synonyms

Antonyms

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