What are the definitions of “back down”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Retract or withdraw your position or proposal in an argument.
She refused to BACK DOWN and was fired.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “back down”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb back down is to retract or withdraw your position or proposal in an argument. It means to stop insisting on your opinion or demand, often because of pressure or opposition from others.
What are the different verb forms of “back down”?
| Root Verb | back down |
| Third Person Singular Present | backs down |
| Present Participle | backing down |
| Simple Past | backed down |
| Past Participle | backed down |
Example
He decided to back down after realizing he was wrong.
Example
She never backs down from a challenge.
Example
They are backing down from their previous demands.
Example
He backed down when he saw that everyone disagreed with him.
Example
She had backed down from her initial position after further discussion.
What kind of phrasal verb is “back down”?
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.)
Intransitive verb
“back down” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The company backed down after public outcry.
Example
He backed down when faced with strong opposition.
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
“back down” 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
The company backed down after public outcry.
Example
He backed down when faced with strong opposition.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “back down”?
Back down from a fight
To avoid or withdraw from a physical or verbal confrontation.
Example
He backed down from the fight when he saw how big his opponent was.
Back down from a challenge
To withdraw from a difficult task or situation.
Example
She never backs down from a challenge, no matter how tough it is.
Back down from a position
To change one's opinion or stance on an issue.
Example
The politician backed down from his position after receiving new information.
Good things to know
Does “back down” have an informal or formal tone?
Back down is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal discussions, such as negotiations or debates.
