double back: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘double back’ mean?
The idiom "double back" means to turn around and go back in the opposite direction. It is often used to describe a change in plans or a reversal of a previous decision.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "inside out" means to turn something or someone completely upside down or reverse the normal order, often to examine or understand it more thoroughly.
The idiom "have second thoughts" means to reconsider a decision or to have doubts about a previous belief or choice.
The idiom "go back to the drawing board" means to start over or try a different approach because the current one has failed or is not effective.
The idiom "go back in time" means to return to a previous period or moment in history, often used figuratively to express the desire or possibility of revisiting past events or changing past actions.
The idiom "get back at" means to seek revenge or retaliate against someone for something they have done to you.
The idiom "dial back" means to reduce or lessen something, often used in the context of scaling down intensity, aggression, or speed.
The idiom "cut both ways" means that a situation or action can have both positive and negative consequences. It implies that something can have a double-edged effect or outcome.
The idiom "come full circle" means to return to the starting point or the original situation after a series of events. It signifies completion or the closing of a cycle.
The idiom "come back from the dead" means to make a surprising or unexpected return or recovery after being thought to be lost forever or beyond saving.
The Enigmatic Turn
Double back is an idiom that is commonly used in the English language. It is a phrasal verb that consists of the word "double" and the word "back." The phrase has a literal meaning and a figurative meaning, both of which are widely recognized and understood by native English speakers.
Literally, to double back means to turn back or reverse one's direction to go back to where one came from. This can be seen in situations such as when a person realizes they have forgotten something at home and needs to go back to retrieve it. In this context, the idiom conveys the action of physically turning around and returning to a previous location.
Figuratively, the idiom double back is used to describe the act of reconsidering or revisiting a previous decision or course of action. It implies a change of direction or a change of mind. This can be seen in various situations, such as in politics when a candidate changes their stance on an issue or in relationships when someone reevaluates their feelings for another person. In these cases, the idiom conveys the idea of reexamining and retracing one's steps.
The related idiom "circle back" has a similar meaning to double back. It also refers to the act of returning to a previous point or topic. However, circle back often implies a more intentional or planned return, whereas double back can convey a sense of spontaneity or an unexpected change of course.
Another related idiom is "backpedal." This term refers to the act of retracting or reversing a previous statement or position. While double back can encompass the act of changing one's mind or course of action, backpedal specifically focuses on the act of retracting or revising a statement or position. This idiom is often used in discussions about politics, where individuals may backtrack on previous statements or promises.
Additionally, the idiom "back in" is related to double back. It is used to describe the act of returning to a previous state or situation. For example, someone may say they want to "back in" to a previous job or relationship. This idiom conveys a sense of nostalgia or desire to return to a familiar or comfortable situation.
As with many idioms, the exact origins of double back are unknown. However, it is believed to have originated in the early 19th century. The idiom is commonly used in both spoken and written English, indicating its widespread usage and understanding.
The idiom double back is frequently used in everyday conversation and various forms of writing, including literature, journalism, and casual discussions. Its versatility and broad applicability contribute to its continued usage in the English language.
The idiom double back has both a literal and figurative meaning that is widely recognized and understood by native English speakers. It conveys the ideas of turning back or reversing one's direction, both physically and metaphorically. The related idioms "circle back," "backpedal," and "back in" further expand on the concept of returning or revisiting previous points, statements, or situations. While the exact origin of the phrase remains uncertain, its usage and understanding are prevalent in both spoken and written English. The idiom's versatility and common usage contribute to its impact and relevance in the English language.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "double back" can be used in a sentence:
- After realizing he left his phone at home, John had to double back to retrieve it before heading to work.
- The hiker decided to double back on the trail to take a closer look at a beautiful waterfall.
- During the car chase, the suspect attempted to double back and lose the police officers pursuing him.
More "Direction" idioms
