What does the phrasal verb “fall back on” mean?

What are the definitions of “fall back on”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Be able to use in an emergency.

  bank to FALL BACK ON when I lost my job.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “fall back on”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb fall back on is to rely on something or someone for support, especially in difficult situations or emergencies. It often refers to having a backup plan or a safety net to help you when things go wrong.

What are the different verb forms of “fall back on”?

Root Verb	fall back on
Third Person Singular Present	falls back on
Present Participle	falling back on
Simple Past	fell back on
Past Participle	fallen back on

Example

If I lose my job, I can fall back on my savings.

Example

She falls back on her family for support when times are tough.

Example

He is falling back on his previous experience to solve the problem.

Example

When the project failed, they fell back on their backup plan.

Example

In times of crisis, people have often fallen back on their communities for help.

What kind of phrasal verb is “fall back on”?

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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.)

Transitive verb

“fall back on” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.

Example

She fell back on her family for support.

Example

He fell back on his savings when he lost his job.

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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 on” 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

She fell back on her family for support.

Example

He fell back on his savings when he lost his job.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “fall back on”?

Fall back on old habits

To return to old behaviors or ways of doing things, especially when under stress or facing challenges.

Example

When she's stressed, she tends to fall back on her old habit of overeating.

Fall back on a plan

To rely on a backup plan when the original plan fails or is no longer viable.

Example

If our first idea doesn't work, we can always fall back on our backup plan.

Fall back on experience

To rely on one's previous knowledge or skills to handle a situation.

Example

When faced with a difficult decision, he fell back on his years of experience.

Good things to know

Does “fall back on” have an informal or formal tone?

Fall back on 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 academic discussions.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “fall back on”?

Synonyms

• rely on
• depend on
• resort to
• turn to
• lean on
• count on
• trust in
• use as a last resort

Antonyms for {keyword}

• abandon
• forsake
• ignore
• neglect
• disregard
• overlook