# drop back

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/drop-back
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to move into a lower position or a slower group during a race or competition.

For teachers: to move into a position behind others in a group, often due to a decrease in speed or performance; frequently used in sporting or military contexts.

## Examples

- The runner started to drop back after the first mile.
- He was leading the race for ten laps but began to drop back as his tires wore out.
- As the lead cyclists accelerated into the final climb, several exhausted riders began to drop back toward the main group.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He dropped back of the group." but "He dropped back from the group." — use 'from' or 'behind' to show the relationship to the leaders, not 'of'.

## Usage notes

- often used with 'to' or 'into' to describe the new, lower position.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'fall behind', which is more general; 'drop back' often implies a deliberate or physical movement in a sequence or line.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.