double back
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Verb: - To turn around and go back the way one came; to reverse one's direction or path.
Usage
This verb describes the physical action of reversing one's course to return along the same route. It is often used when an obstacle, a mistake, a change of mind, or a forgotten item necessitates going back.
Examples
- We realized we had taken the wrong trail and had to double back to find the correct path.
- I forgot my keys at the office and had to double back to get them.
- The fox doubled back on its tracks to confuse the hunters.
Advanced Usage
- Figurative Use: Can be used metaphorically to describe reversing a decision, opinion, or course of action.
- After initially supporting the proposal, the senator doubled back and voted against it.
Variants and Related Words
- Turn back: A close synonym, often used interchangeably with "double back."
- Retrace one's steps: A more formal phrase with a similar meaning.
Synonyms
- Turn back
- Go back
- Retrace one's steps
- Reverse course
Related Phrasal Verbs
(This word is itself a phrasal verb. Other related phrasal verbs include:) - Turn around: To change direction to face the opposite way; can imply a similar reversal of movement. - Go back on: To fail to keep a promise or commitment (different meaning, related to reversal of a promise).
Verb
- retrace one's course
- The hikers got into a storm and had to turn back