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

1. retrace one's course
   • The hikers got into a storm and had to turn back