What are the definitions of “bounce back”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Recover.
The economy is BOUNCING BACK from the recession.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “bounce back”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb bounce back is to recover or return to a normal state after a difficult situation or setback. It can be used to describe people, businesses, or even economies recovering from a difficult time.
What are the different verb forms of “bounce back”?
| Root Verb | bounce back |
| Third Person Singular Present | bounces back |
| Present Participle | bouncing back |
| Simple Past | bounced back |
| Past Participle | bounced back |
Example
After a tough loss, the team was determined to bounce back in the next game.
Example
She always bounces back quickly after a setback.
Example
The economy is bouncing back after the recession.
Example
He bounced back from his illness and returned to work.
Example
The company had bounced back from its previous financial troubles.
What kind of phrasal verb is “bounce back”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“bounce back” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The stock market bounced back after a week of losses.
Example
She bounced back quickly from her injury.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“bounce back” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The stock market bounced back after a week of losses.
Example
She bounced back quickly from her injury.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “bounce back”?
Good things to know
Does “bounce back” have an informal or formal tone?
Bounce back is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or news reports.