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Phrasal verbs "drop back" vs "hang back"

Differences between drop back and hang back

Drop back usually means to move to a position behind someone or something, while hang back generally means to stay behind or not move forward with a group.

Meanings and Definitions: drop back vs hang back

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Drop back

  • 1Move towards the back of a group.

    He stared at the front, but got tired and DROPPED BACK as the race went on.

Hang back

  • 1Not move forwards to avoid doing something.

    When they raced towards the entrance, I HUNG BACK till it was less crowded.

Usage Examples: drop back, hang back in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

drop back

Example

During the marathon, she started to feel tired and had to drop back.

Example

He often drops back when he gets tired during a long run.

hang back

Example

She always hangs back when her friends start dancing.

Example

He hangs back when he sees a large group of people.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Drop back

fall behind

To move slower than others and be left behind.

Example

During the marathon, she started to fall behind the other runners and had to pick up her pace.

retreat

To move back or withdraw from a position or situation.

Example

The army was forced to retreat after facing heavy fire from the enemy's troops.

take a step back

To move away from a situation or problem to gain perspective or reassess.

Example

When things got too overwhelming, she decided to take a step back and evaluate her priorities.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hang back

hold back

To restrain oneself from doing or saying something.

Example

He had to hold back his anger when his boss criticized his work unfairly.

stay put

To remain in one place or position.

Example

The teacher asked the students to stay put until the fire drill was over.

keep to oneself

To avoid socializing or interacting with others.

Example

She preferred to keep to herself during lunch breaks and read a book instead of chatting with colleagues.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “hang”

Differences in drop back vs hang back: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: drop back or hang back?

In daily conversation, people use hang back more often than drop back. This is because hang back is used for social situations where someone may be hesitant to join a group or activity. Drop back is less common and is mainly used in sports or driving contexts. So, while both phrases are used, hang back is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of drop back and hang back

Drop back and hang 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 drop back and hang back

The tone of drop back and hang back can differ based on context. Drop back often carries a competitive or strategic tone when related to sports or driving, while hang back typically has a hesitant or reserved tone, especially when referring to social situations.

drop back & hang back: Synonyms and Antonyms

Drop back

Synonyms

Antonyms

Hang back

Synonyms

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