What are the definitions of “drop back”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Move towards the back of a group.
He stared at the front, but got tired and DROPPED BACK as the race went on.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “drop back”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb drop back is to move towards the back of a group or to fall behind in a race or competition. It is often used to describe someone who is losing their position or falling behind others.
What are the different verb forms of “drop back”?
| Root Verb | drop back |
| Third Person Singular Present | drops back |
| Present Participle | dropping back |
| Simple Past | dropped back |
| Past Participle | dropped back |
Example
During the marathon, she started to feel tired and had to drop back.
Example
He often drops back when he gets tired during a long run.
Example
She is dropping back in the race due to her injury.
Example
He dropped back in the last lap of the race.
Example
She had dropped back to the last position in the race.
What kind of phrasal verb is “drop 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
“drop 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
He dropped back as the race went on.
Example
She dropped back to the last position in the race.
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
“drop 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
He dropped back as the race went on.
Example
She dropped back to the last position in the race.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “drop back”?
Good things to know
Does “drop back” have an informal or formal tone?
Drop back is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as sports commentary or news articles.
