What are the definitions of “hang back from”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Delay or avoid doing something.
They were HANGING BACK FROM making the final decision.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “hang back from”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb hang back from is to delay or avoid doing something. It means that someone is not taking action or making a decision because they are unsure or hesitant.
What are the different verb forms of “hang back from”?
| Root Verb | hang back from |
| Third Person Singular Present | hangs back from |
| Present Participle | hanging back from |
| Simple Past | hung back from |
| Past Participle | hung back from |
Example
She always hangs back from making important decisions.
Example
He hangs back from confronting his boss about the issue.
Example
They are hanging back from investing in the new project.
Example
Yesterday, she hung back from telling her friend the truth.
Example
He had hung back from applying for the job because he was nervous.
What kind of phrasal verb is “hang back from”?
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
“hang back from” 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
She hung back from making the decision.
Example
They hung back from taking action.
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
“hang back from” 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 hung back from making the decision.
Example
They hung back from taking action.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “hang back from”?
Hang back
To stay behind or keep a distance from something or someone.
Example
During the tour, he hung back to take pictures of the scenery.
Good things to know
Does “hang back from” have an informal or formal tone?
Hang back from 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.
