説明中心

Phrasal verbs "back out" vs "peter out"

Differences between back out and peter out

Back out means to withdraw from a commitment or promise, while peter out means to gradually decrease in intensity or come to an end.

Meanings and Definitions: back out vs peter out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Back out

  • 1Fail to keep an arrangement or promise.

    He BACKED OUT two days before the holiday so we gave the ticket to his sister.

Peter out

  • 1Lose impetus and stop.

    Everyone was keen at first, but the enthusiasm PETERED OUT when they saw how long it would take.

Usage Examples: back out, peter out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

back out

Example

She promised to help me, but she backed out at the last minute.

Example

He always backs out of plans at the last minute.

peter out

Example

The party started with a lot of excitement, but it petered out as the night went on.

Example

The sound of the rain peters out as the storm moves away.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Back out

renege on

To break a promise or commitment.

Example

He reneged on his promise to help me move to a new apartment.

pull out

To withdraw from a commitment or situation.

Example

The company decided to pull out of the project due to financial constraints.

chicken out

To decide not to do something because of fear or lack of courage.

Example

He chickened out of asking his crush out on a date.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Peter out

fizzle out

To gradually lose strength or intensity until it ends.

Example

The party fizzled out around midnight, and everyone went home.

die down

To gradually become less intense or loud.

Example

The storm died down after a few hours, and the sun came out.

taper off

To gradually decrease in intensity or amount.

Example

The number of visitors to the museum tapered off after the first week of the exhibition.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

Differences in back out vs peter out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: back out or peter out?

In daily conversation, people use back out more often than peter out. This is because back out is used for more common situations such as canceling plans or breaking promises. Peter out is less common and usually used in specific contexts such as describing the end of a party or a conversation. So, while both phrases are used, back out is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of back out and peter out

Back out and peter out are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of back out and peter out

The tone of back out and peter out can differ based on context. Back out often carries a negative or disappointed tone when related to breaking a promise or canceling plans, while peter out typically has a neutral or relaxed tone, especially when referring to the end of a situation or event.

back out & peter out: Synonyms and Antonyms

This content was generated with the assistance of AI technology based on RedKiwi's unique learning data. By utilizing automated AI content, we can quickly deliver a wide range of highly accurate content to users. Experience the benefits of AI by having your questions answered and receiving reliable information!