ENGLISH
REFERENCE

bring back to life

idiom
Meaning

To return someone to a state of consciousness or living after a state of unconsciousness, death or near-death.


Origin

disputed origin

From the phrase bring to life with the predicate adjective back (“returned to a previous state or condition”).

Examples
SIMPLE

The doctor used a machine to bring the patient back to life.

CONTEXTUAL

The paramedics worked quickly to bring the victim back to life after he collapsed on the street.

COMPLEX

Through a combination of advanced medical technology and sheer persistence, the team managed to bring the critically injured climber back to life against all odds.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    all the way to Egery and back

    The long way; a roundabout route; a long distance to travel.

  2. 02

    back down

    To take a less aggressive position in a conflict than one previously had, or has planned to have.

  3. 03

    back forty

    The most remote or inaccessible part of any place.

  4. 04

    back gammon player

    A person, chiefly a homosexual, who has anal sex.

  5. 05

    back in the game

    Having recovered from a disadvantageous position.

  6. 06

    back into

    To advance to the post-season as a result of another team's loss, especially where one's own team has also lost.

  7. 07

    back of one's hand

    A display of disrespect or scorn.

  8. 08

    back off

    To become less aggressive, particularly when one had appeared committed to act.

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