Phrasal verb
double back
Definition
phrasal verb. to turn around and go back the way you came. You do this if you realize you missed a turn or forgot something.
phrasal verb. To reverse direction and return along the same path previously traversed. The verb is intransitive and functions as a phrasal verb of movement, often implying a correction of a navigational error.
Examples
“We had to double back when we realized we missed the turn.”
“After hiking for an hour, the group realized they had taken the wrong path and had to double back to the last trail marker.”
“The detective suspected the suspect would double back to the scene of the crime to retrieve the incriminating evidence he had inadvertently left behind.”
Examples
simple
“We had to double back when we realized we missed the turn.”
contextual
“After hiking for an hour, the group realized they had taken the wrong path and had to double back to the last trail marker.”
complex
“The detective suspected the suspect would double back to the scene of the crime to retrieve the incriminating evidence he had inadvertently left behind.”
Usage
This phrase is almost always used without a direct object to describe a change in movement.
Teaching tip
Contrast with 'turn back'; 'double back' specifically implies returning along the exact same route rather than just stopping a journey.
Pitfall
He doubled back his steps to the car.
He retraced his steps to the car.
While 'retrace' takes 'steps' as an object, 'double back' is intransitive and does not take a direct object.
Phrasal verb
Particles
back
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
double + back
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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