Phrasal verbs "fall back" vs "fall back on"

Differences between fall back and fall back on

Fall back means to move away or retreat from a position or situation, while fall back on means to rely on something or someone for support or help.

Meanings and Definitions: fall back vs fall back on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Fall back

  • 1Retreat.

    The army FELL BACK after losing the battle.

Fall back on

  • 1Be able to use in an emergency.

    bank to FALL BACK ON when I lost my job.

Usage Examples: fall back, fall back on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

fall back

Example

The soldiers were ordered to fall back to a safer position.

Example

When faced with a difficult question, she often falls back on her previous knowledge.

fall back on

Example

If I lose my job, I can fall back on my savings.

Example

She falls back on her family for support when times are tough.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Fall back

To move away or withdraw from a position or situation.

Example

The soldiers were ordered to retreat after the enemy launched a surprise attack.

To move away or distance oneself from a situation or problem.

Example

She decided to step back from the project and take a break to clear her mind.

To move away or retreat from a confrontation or conflict.

Example

He had to back off from the argument to avoid escalating the situation further.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Fall back on

To depend on or trust in someone or something for support or assistance.

Example

She knew she could rely on her best friend to help her through the tough times.

To trust or have confidence in someone or something to provide support or help.

Example

He knew he could count on his team to deliver the project on time.

To seek help or support from someone or something in a time of need.

Example

She had no choice but to turn to her parents for financial assistance after losing her job.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “fall”

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

Differences in fall back vs fall back on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: fall back or fall back on?

In daily conversation, people use fall back on more often than fall back. This is because fall back on is used in a variety of situations where we need to rely on something or someone for support. Fall back is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used when we're talking about physical movement or military tactics. So, while both phrases are used, fall back on is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of fall back and fall back on

Fall back and fall back on 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 fall back and fall back on

The tone of fall back and fall back on can differ based on context. Fall back often carries a negative or defensive tone when related to retreating or giving up, while fall back on typically has a positive and practical tone, especially when referring to relying on someone or something for support.

fall back & fall back on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Fall back

Antonyms

Fall back on

Synonyms

  • rely on
  • depend on
  • resort to
  • turn to
  • lean on
  • count on
  • trust in
  • use as a last resort

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