What does the phrasal verb “spring back” mean?

What are the definitions of “spring back”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Return to original position after being bent, forced or when pressure is removed.

  The lock SPRINGS BACK when the key is turned.

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb spring back is to return to the original position after being bent, forced, or when pressure is removed. It can be used to describe objects or materials that regain their shape after being deformed.

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

Root Verb	spring back
Third Person Singular Present	springs back
Present Participle	springing back
Simple Past	sprang back
Past Participle	sprung back

Example

The rubber band springs back to its original shape after being stretched.

Example

The door springs back into place when you let go of it.

Example

The mattress is springing back to its original shape after being compressed.

Example

The tree branch sprang back after the weight of the snow was removed.

Example

The cushion had sprung back to its original shape after she stood up.

What kind of phrasal verb is “spring 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.)

Intransitive verb

“spring 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 elastic sprang back after being stretched.

Example

The door sprang back when I let go of it.

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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

“spring 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 elastic sprang back after being stretched.

Example

The door sprang back when I let go of it.

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

Spring back to life

To suddenly become active or lively again after a period of inactivity or dormancy.

Example

The garden sprang back to life after the first rain of the season.

Spring back into action

To quickly resume an activity or task after a pause or interruption.

Example

After a short break, the team sprang back into action to finish the project.

Spring back from adversity

To recover quickly from a difficult situation or setback.

Example

Despite the challenges, she sprang back from adversity and continued to pursue her dreams.

Good things to know

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

Spring 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 writing or presentations.

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

Synonyms

• rebound
• recover
• return
• regain
• resume
• bounce back

Antonyms

• collapse
• sag
• wilt
• yield
• succumb
• give way