Differences between hang back and keep back
Hang back usually means to stay behind or hesitate to take action, while keep back generally means to hold something or someone back from moving forward.
Meanings and Definitions: hang back vs keep back
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Hang back
- 1Not move forwards to avoid doing something.
When they raced towards the entrance, I HUNG BACK till it was less crowded.
Keep back
- 1Maintain a safe distance.
The police told the crowd to KEEP BACK from the fire.
Usage Examples: hang back, keep back in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
hang back
Example
She always hangs back when her friends start dancing.
Example
He hangs back when he sees a large group of people.
keep back
Example
Please keep back from the edge of the cliff.
Example
She keeps back from the aggressive dog.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hang back
hesitate
To pause or be reluctant to take action or make a decision.
Example
She hesitated to speak up during the meeting because she wasn't sure if her idea was relevant.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Keep back
To hold back or prevent someone or something from moving or acting.
Example
The police officer had to restrain the suspect to prevent him from running away.
To keep something from being shared or given out.
Example
The company decided to withhold the bonuses until the end of the year to motivate employees to work harder.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “hang”
- hang out for
- hang back from
- hang around
- hang about
- hang in there
Phrasal Verbs with “keep”
Phrasal Verbs with “back”
Differences in hang back vs keep back: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: hang back or keep back?
In daily conversation, people use hang back more often than keep back. This is because hang back is used in a variety of situations such as social interactions, group activities, and decision-making processes. Keep back is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about physically holding something or someone back. So, while both phrases are used, hang back is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hang back and keep back
Hang back and keep 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 hang back and keep back
The tone of hang back and keep back can differ based on context. Hang back often carries a hesitant or cautious tone when related to social interactions or decision-making, while keep back typically has a physical and authoritative tone, especially when referring to holding something or someone back.
