English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word "fall back" in English

What does "fall back" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

fall back

US /fɔːl bæk/
UK /fɔːl bæk/
"fall back" picture

Phrasal Verb

1.

to retreat or move back

Example:
•
The troops were ordered to fall back to a more defensible position.
•
When the enemy advanced, our soldiers had to fall back.
Synonym:
retreatwithdrawrecedepull backdraw back
2.

to rely on someone or something for support or help when in difficulty

Example:
•
If things go wrong, we can always fall back on our savings.
•
She had to fall back on her emergency skills during the crisis.
Synonym:
rely onresort todepend onturn tolean on
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Related Word:
fall back onfallfallingfall tofall in withfall intofall for