Phrasal verb
circle back
Definition
phrasal verb. to talk about something again later or return to a topic after some time. You use this when you need more information before making a final decision.
phrasal verb. to revisit a subject, person, or issue at a later time. Often functions as an intransitive phrasal verb or takes a prepositional phrase starting with 'to'.
Examples
“Let's circle back to this discussion after the break.”
“I need to check the latest sales figures, so I will circle back to you tomorrow morning.”
“The executive suggested they circle back to the merger talks once the market volatility had subsided and the shareholders felt more secure.”
Examples
simple
“Let's circle back to this discussion after the break.”
contextual
“I need to check the latest sales figures, so I will circle back to you tomorrow morning.”
complex
“The executive suggested they circle back to the merger talks once the market volatility had subsided and the shareholders felt more secure.”
Usage
Commonly used in professional environments and often followed by the preposition 'to'.
Teaching tip
Highlight this as a common piece of business jargon used to delay a decision or manage time during meetings.
Pitfall
We should circle back the project next week.
We should circle back to the project next week.
the verb requires the preposition 'to' when followed by a specific topic or object.
Phrasal verb
Particles
back
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
circle + back (+ to + object)
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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