What are the definitions of “row back”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Retreat from a position.
The prime minister refused to ROW BACK and lost the vote.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “row back”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb row back is to retreat or withdraw from a position, especially in a political or social context. It often refers to changing one's opinion or decision due to external pressure or criticism.
What are the different verb forms of “row back”?
| Root Verb | row back |
| Third Person Singular Present | rows back |
| Present Participle | rowing back |
| Simple Past | rowed back |
| Past Participle | rowed back |
Example
The politician decided to row back on his controversial statement.
Example
She rows back on her decision after receiving negative feedback.
Example
He is rowing back on his previous stance due to public outcry.
Example
The company rowed back on its plans to cut employee benefits.
Example
The government rowed back on its proposal after protests.
What kind of phrasal verb is “row 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
“row 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 politician rowed back after facing criticism.
Example
The company rowed back when they realized the negative impact.
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
“row 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 politician rowed back after facing criticism.
Example
The company rowed back when they realized the negative impact.
Good things to know
Does “row back” have an informal or formal tone?
Row back is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in political and social discussions, as well as in news articles and reports.
