What are the definitions of “back out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Fail to keep an arrangement or promise.
He BACKED OUT two days before the holiday so we gave the ticket to his sister.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “back out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb back out is to fail to keep an arrangement or promise. It means that someone changes their mind or decides not to do something they previously agreed to do.
What are the different verb forms of “back out”?
| Root Verb | back out |
| Third Person Singular Present | backs out |
| Present Participle | backing out |
| Simple Past | backed out |
| Past Participle | backed 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.
Example
They are backing out of the deal because they found a better offer.
Example
She backed out of the agreement after realizing the risks involved.
Example
He had backed out of the project due to personal reasons.
What kind of phrasal verb is “back out”?
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 out” 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
She backed out of the agreement.
Example
He backed out at the last minute.
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 out” 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
She backed out of the agreement.
Example
He backed out at the last minute.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “back out”?
Back out of a parking space
To reverse a vehicle out of a parking spot.
Example
She carefully backed out of the tight parking space.
Back out of a commitment
To withdraw from a promise or obligation.
Example
He backed out of the commitment after realizing it was too much work.
Back out of a deal
To withdraw from an agreement or contract.
Example
The company backed out of the deal when they discovered hidden costs.
Good things to know
Does “back out” have an informal or formal tone?
Back out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, such as business negotiations or legal discussions.
