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Phrasal verbs "drop back" vs "start back"

Differences between drop back and start back

Drop back means to move backwards or to fall behind in a race or competition, while start back means to begin again after a pause or interruption.

Meanings and Definitions: drop back vs start 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.

Start back

  • 1To resume or begin again.

    I want to start back as soon as I’m fit.

  • 2To return or go back to a previous location or activity.

    It’s time we were starting back.

  • 3To move suddenly or quickly in a backward direction, often due to fear or surprise.

    She started back in fright.

Usage Examples: drop back, start 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.

start back

Example

After the holidays, we will start back with our regular schedule.

Example

She starts back at work next week after her maternity leave.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Drop back

fall behind

To be left behind or to lag behind others in a race, competition, or task.

Example

Due to his injury, he had to fall behind the other runners in the marathon.

lose ground

To lose advantage or progress in a situation or competition.

Example

The company started to lose ground to its competitors due to its outdated marketing strategies.

trail behind

To follow or move behind someone or something at a slower pace.

Example

The hiker had to trail behind the group due to his heavy backpack.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Start back

resume

To begin again after a pause or interruption.

Example

After the lunch break, the meeting will resume with the next agenda item.

pick up where one left off

To continue doing something from the point where one stopped previously.

Example

After the vacation, she was able to pick up where she left off with her language studies.

get back into the swing of things

To return to a normal routine or activity after a period of inactivity or change.

Example

After the move, it took her a few days to get back into the swing of things at work.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

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

Frequency in Daily Use: drop back or start back?

In everyday conversation, start back is more common than drop back. This is because start back is used in various contexts such as work, school, and hobbies. Drop back is less common and mainly used in sports or competitive situations.

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

Drop back and start back are both informal phrases suitable for casual conversations. However, start back can be used in more formal settings such as business or academic contexts to indicate a resumption of work or study.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of drop back and start back

The tone of drop back and start back can differ based on context. Drop back often carries a negative or disappointed tone when referring to falling behind in a race or competition, while start back typically has a positive and determined tone, especially when referring to resuming work or study after a break.

drop back & start back: Synonyms and Antonyms

Drop back

Synonyms

Antonyms

Start back

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