What does the phrasal verb “scale back” mean?

What are the definitions of “scale back”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Make something smaller than originally planned.

  They had to SCALE BACK the project because of the costs.

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb scale back is to reduce the size, scope, or extent of something, usually because of limitations or constraints. It often refers to making plans or projects smaller than originally intended.

What are the different verb forms of “scale back”?

Root Verb	scale back
Third Person Singular Present	scales back
Present Participle	scaling back
Simple Past	scaled back
Past Participle	scaled back

Example

The company decided to scale back their expansion plans.

Example

She scales back her spending when money is tight.

Example

They are scaling back the production due to low demand.

Example

He scaled back his travel plans because of the pandemic.

Example

The event was scaled back to accommodate fewer guests.

What kind of phrasal verb is “scale back”?

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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

“scale back” 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

The government scaled back the funding for the project.

Example

She scaled her expenses back to save money.

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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

“scale 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 government scaled back the funding for the project.

Example

She scaled her expenses back to save money.

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

Scale back on something

To reduce the amount or frequency of something, often as a result of limitations or constraints.

Example

I need to scale back on eating junk food to improve my health.

Scale back operations

To reduce the size or scope of a business or organization's activities, often in response to financial or logistical challenges.

Example

The factory had to scale back operations due to a shortage of raw materials.

Scale back expectations

To lower one's expectations or ambitions, often in response to changing circumstances or new information.

Example

After receiving feedback, he decided to scale back expectations for the project's success.

Good things to know

Does “scale back” have an informal or formal tone?

Scale back 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 “scale back”?

Synonyms

• reduce
• decrease
• downsize
• diminish
• lessen
• lower
• retrench
• trim
• curtail
• cut back

Antonyms

• increase
• expand
• enlarge
• grow
• extend
• raise
• enhance
• develop
• strengthen
• boost