fall back

To move away from an enemy or danger to a safer position.

• The troops fell back.
• We fell back to a safer position.
• The commander ordered everyone to fall back before the next attack.

How to use it: fall back to a place (The soldiers fell back to the bridge.)

Similar words: retreat, withdraw

Opposites: advance

Common phrases: fall back slowly, fall back to safety

To fall toward a place behind you.

• He fell back onto the sofa.
• She stumbled and fell back into my arms.
• The force of the wave made him fall back.

How to use it: fall back onto/into something (She lost her balance and fell back onto the bed.)

Similar words: fall backward

Common phrases: fall back onto something, fall back into something

To put clocks one hour earlier when summer time ends.

• We fall back this Sunday.
• Remember to fall back an hour tonight.
• When we fell back, I enjoyed the extra hour in bed.

Similar words: put the clocks back

Opposites: spring forward

Common phrases: fall back tonight, fall back an hour

To fail to do what you promised or intended.

• She fell back from her promise.
• They fell back from their purpose when trouble came.
• He vowed to help, then fell back from his undertaking.

How to use it: fall back from a promise/purpose (He fell back from his promise to support them.)

Similar words: renege, back out

Common phrases: fall back from something, fall back from promises