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Phrasal verbs "step back" vs "turn back"

Differences between step back and turn back

Step back means to move away from something or someone, while turn back means to go back in the opposite direction.

Meanings and Definitions: step back vs turn back

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Step back

  • 1Look at something from a different perspective.

    We should STEP BACK and try to see how our customers will view the scheme.

Turn back

  • 1Return to a previous position or place.

    After realising that they had been walking for too long, they asked other walkers for directions and turned back to reach the pupils.

  • 2Return or go back.

    Bad weather forced them to turn back.

Usage Examples: step back, turn back in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

step back

Example

Sometimes, it's important to step back and evaluate the situation.

Example

She steps back to get a better view of the painting.

turn back

Example

When we realized we were lost, we decided to turn back.

Example

She turns back when she notices she forgot her wallet at home.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Step back

take a break

To pause or rest from an activity or situation.

Example

I need to take a break from work and clear my mind before I continue.

keep one's distance

To maintain a safe or respectful physical or emotional space from someone or something.

Example

After their argument, she decided to keep her distance from him until they both calm down.

reconsider one's position

To review or change one's opinion or decision based on new information or circumstances.

Example

After hearing the other side's arguments, he decided to reconsider his position on the issue.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Turn back

go back

To return to a previous location or situation.

Example

We need to go back to the office and get the documents we forgot.

retrace one's steps

To go back along the same path or route that one has taken before.

Example

He realized he left his phone at the restaurant and had to retrace his steps to find it.

regret not doing something

To feel sorry or disappointed about not taking a certain action or opportunity in the past.

Example

She regrets not studying abroad when she had the chance in college.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Differences in step back vs turn back: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: step back or turn back?

Both phrases are commonly used in daily conversation, but step back is more versatile and can be used in various contexts, such as physical distance, emotional detachment, or reconsidering a decision. Turn back is more specific and usually refers to physically going back to a previous location or direction.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of step back and turn back

Both step back and turn back are informal phrases suitable for casual conversations. However, turn back can also be used in more formal settings, such as academic or literary writing, to convey a sense of nostalgia or regret.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of step back and turn back

The tone of step back and turn back can differ based on context. Step back often carries a neutral or objective tone when related to physical distance or emotional boundaries, while turn back can have a nostalgic or regretful tone, especially when referring to missed opportunities or past experiences.

step back & turn back: Synonyms and Antonyms

Step back

Antonyms

  • rush in
  • charge ahead
  • plunge in
  • forge ahead
  • press on
  • push forward

Turn back

Antonyms

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