look back

To think about things that happened in the past.

• I often look back on my childhood.
• Looking back, we had a wonderful summer.
• How will you look back on your time here?

How to use it: look back on something (She looks back on her childhood with affection.); look back at something (The report looks back at the events of last year.)

Similar words: reflect, remember, reminisce

Common phrases: look back fondly, look back sadly

To question or feel sorry about a decision you have already made.

• Choose your path and do not look back.
• She left that job and never looked back.
• Once you have decided, there is no reason to look back.

Similar words: reconsider, regret

Common phrases: never look back, look back regretfully

To turn your eyes or head to see what is behind you.

• Look back at the car.
• He looked back to see who was following him.
• Do not look back while you are cycling.

How to use it: look back at someone/something (He looked back at the house as he left.); look back over your shoulder (She looked back over her shoulder to check the road.)

Similar words: look behind

Common phrases: look back briefly, look back again