What are the definitions of “fall back”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Retreat.
The army FELL BACK after losing the battle.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “fall back”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb fall back is to retreat or move back, usually in a situation where someone or something is facing difficulty or danger. For example, it can be used to describe a military retreat or moving away from a challenging situation.
What are the different verb forms of “fall back”?
| Root Verb | fall back |
| Third Person Singular Present | falls back |
| Present Participle | falling back |
| Simple Past | fell back |
| Past Participle | fallen back |
Example
The soldiers were ordered to fall back to a safer position.
Example
When faced with a difficult question, she often falls back on her previous knowledge.
Example
The team is falling back to regroup and come up with a new strategy.
Example
The army fell back after losing the battle.
Example
The troops had fallen back to a more defensible position.
What kind of phrasal verb is “fall 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
“fall 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 army fell back after losing the battle.
Example
When faced with a difficult question, she often falls back on her previous knowledge.
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
“fall 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 army fell back after losing the battle.
Example
When faced with a difficult question, she often falls back on her previous knowledge.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “fall back”?
Good things to know
Does “fall back” have an informal or formal tone?
Fall 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 military or strategic discussions.
