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Phrasal verbs "strike back" vs "strike out"

Differences between strike back and strike out

Strike back means to retaliate or respond aggressively to an attack or criticism, while strike out means to fail at something or to be unsuccessful.

Meanings and Definitions: strike back vs strike out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Strike back

  • 1Attack, take action against someone who has hurt you.

    At first, he ignored them, but when things got very serious, he STRUCK BACK.

Strike out

  • 1Start doing something new and different.

    After doing the same job for five years, I decided to STRIKE OUT and change careers.

  • 2Try to hit someone.

    When he pushed me, I STRUCK OUT.

  • 3Start going towards a place.

    We got up early and STRUCK OUT for our final destination.

  • 4Cross writing out.

    As they arrived, I STRUCK their names OUT on the list I had.

  • 5Fail.

    I tried to get the government to support us but I STRUCK OUT.

Usage Examples: strike back, strike out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

strike back

Example

If they attack us, we will strike back.

Example

She always strikes back when someone criticizes her.

strike out

Example

She decided to strike out on her own and start a new business.

Example

He strikes out for a new adventure every summer.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Strike back

retaliate

To respond to an attack or criticism with aggression or force.

Example

After being insulted, he decided to retaliate and insulted the person back.

fight back

To resist or defend oneself against an attack or criticism.

Example

She decided to fight back against the bullies and stood up for herself.

hit back

To respond to an attack or criticism with a counterattack or criticism.

Example

He hit back at his opponent's accusations and proved them wrong.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Strike out

fail

To be unsuccessful or not achieve a desired outcome.

Example

Despite studying hard, she failed the exam and had to retake it.

come up short

To fail to meet expectations or goals.

Example

The team came up short in the final game and lost the championship.

fall through

To fail to materialize or happen as planned.

Example

Their plans to go on a trip fell through due to unexpected circumstances.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

Differences in strike back vs strike out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: strike back or strike out?

In everyday conversation, strike out is more common than strike back. This is because strike out can be used in a variety of contexts, such as sports, academics, and personal experiences. On the other hand, strike back is more specific and is usually used in situations where someone is being attacked or criticized.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of strike back and strike out

Both strike back and strike out are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations with friends and family. However, in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more professional tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of strike back and strike out

The tone of strike back and strike out can differ based on context. Strike back often carries a defensive or aggressive tone when related to retaliation or responding to criticism, while strike out typically has a disappointed or frustrated tone, especially when referring to failure or lack of success.

strike back & strike out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Strike back

Synonyms

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