What are the definitions of “tie back”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Fasten or secure so that it doesn't obstruct.
She TIED her hair BACK before playing tennis.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “tie back”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb tie back is to fasten or secure something, usually hair or curtains, so that it doesn't obstruct or get in the way. For example, it can mean tying your hair back before exercising or securing curtains to let in more light.
What are the different verb forms of “tie back”?
| Root Verb | tie back |
| Third Person Singular Present | ties back |
| Present Participle | tying back |
| Simple Past | tied back |
| Past Participle | tied back |
Example
She always ties back her hair when she goes for a run.
Example
He ties back the curtains to let in more sunlight.
Example
She is tying back her hair before starting her workout.
Example
Yesterday, they tied back the curtains to brighten the room.
Example
Her hair was neatly tied back in a ponytail.
What kind of phrasal verb is “tie 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.)
Transitive verb
“tie 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
She tied her hair back before playing tennis.
Example
He tied the curtains back to let in more light.
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
“tie 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
She tied her hair back before playing tennis.
Example
He tied the curtains back to let in more light.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “tie back”?
Good things to know
Does “tie back” have an informal or formal tone?
Tie back is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, depending on the specific context.
