Phrasal verbs "draw back" vs "hand back"

Differences between draw back and hand back

Draw back means to move away from something or someone, usually because of fear or danger. Hand back means to return something to the person who gave it to you or to its rightful owner.

Meanings and Definitions: draw back vs hand back

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Draw back

  • 1Retreat, move backwards.

    He DREW BACK when the dog barked.

Hand back

  • 1Return.

    The police officer checked my licence, then HANDED it BACK.

Usage Examples: draw back, hand back in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

draw back

Example

When the snake hissed, she drew back in fear.

Example

He draws back when he sees the spider.

hand back

Example

Please hand back the pen when you're done using it.

Example

She always hands back the books she borrows on time.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Draw back

To move back or withdraw from a situation or place, usually because of fear or danger.

Example

The soldiers were forced to retreat after encountering heavy enemy fire.

To move away from something or someone in fear or hesitation.

Example

She shrunk back when she saw the spider crawling towards her.

To move away from something or someone to create distance or avoid danger.

Example

He quickly stepped back when he realized the car was about to hit him.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hand back

To give something back to the person who gave it to you or to its rightful owner.

Example

I need to return this book to the library before it's overdue.

To return something to its owner or the person who gave it to you.

Example

She promised to give back the money she borrowed from her friend next week.

To bring something back to its original state or owner.

Example

The museum decided to restore the ancient artifact to its former glory.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “draw”

Phrasal Verbs with “hand”

Differences in draw back vs hand back: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: draw back or hand back?

In daily conversation, people use hand back more often than draw back. This is because hand back is used in many situations, such as returning borrowed items or giving something back to its owner. Draw back is not used as much and is mainly used in situations where someone is afraid or needs to move away from something. So, while both phrases are used, hand back is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of draw back and hand back

Draw back and hand back are both 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 draw back and hand back

The tone of draw back and hand back can differ based on context. Draw back often carries a fearful or cautious tone when related to moving away from something, while hand back typically has a polite and helpful tone, especially when returning something to its owner.

draw back & hand back: Synonyms and Antonyms

Draw back

Synonyms

Antonyms

This content was generated with the assistance of AI technology based on RedKiwi's unique learning data. By utilizing automated AI content, we can quickly deliver a wide range of highly accurate content to users. Experience the benefits of AI by having your questions answered and receiving reliable information!