“Fall Back” Meaning, Origin and Examples

The phrase “fall back” is commonly used in conversations and writing. In this reference, you’ll discover what “fall back” means and explore its origins.

You’ll also find examples demonstrating how to use it and alternative expressions that convey the same meaning. By understanding the different ways to use “fall back,” you can improve your communication.

Fall Back Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

• “Fall back” means to retreat or withdraw, to rely on a backup plan or resource, or to revert to a previous state or condition. It can also refer to the action of setting clocks back one hour, particularly in relation to daylight saving time.

What Does “Fall Back” Mean?

The phrase “fall back” has several meanings depending on the context in which it is used:

To retreat or withdraw: This usage often applies in military or strategic contexts, where forces or individuals are instructed to fall back to a safer position.

• “The troops were ordered to fall back to their base after encountering heavy enemy fire.”

To rely on something as a backup: This meaning refers to using an alternative plan, resource, or support when the primary option is not available or fails.

• “If the first plan doesn’t work, we can always fall back on our secondary strategy.”

To revert to a previous state or condition: This usage indicates going back to an earlier time or situation when current conditions are not favorable.

• “If the new system doesn’t function properly, we may need to fall back to the old software.”

In terms of time change: In some contexts, particularly in relation to daylight saving time, “fall back” refers to setting clocks back one hour.

• “Remember to fall back an hour when daylight saving time ends.”

In essence, “fall back” can imply retreating, relying on a backup, or reverting to a previous state.

Origin of the Idiom

Although there is little information about the origin of this phrase, it is believed to have been derived from the military meaning to retreat in the 1600s. The other meanings have been derived over time as the phrase was used for other purposes.

Usage of “Fall Back”

1. Military context:
   • “The commander ordered the troops to fall back to a safer location when the enemy advanced.”
2. Backup plans:
   • “If our initial marketing strategy doesn’t work, we can always fall back on our secondary plan.”
3. Reverting to a previous state:
   • “After the new software failed to improve efficiency, the team decided to fall back to the old system.”
4. In discussions about time:
   • “Don’t forget to fall back one hour this Sunday when daylight saving time ends.”
5. In sports or competition:
   • “When the main player got injured, the team had to fall back on their bench players to finish the game.”

In each of these examples, the phrase “fall back” is used to indicate retreating, relying on alternatives, or reverting to a previous state.

Related Terms to “Fall Back”

• Retreat – To withdraw from a position or situation, often in response to danger or difficulty.
• Fallback plan – An alternative strategy or option that can be used if the primary plan fails.
• Revert – To return to a previous state, condition, or situation.
• Backtrack – To return to a previous position or decision, often after reconsidering.
• Fallback position – A strategic or supportive stance that can be used when the main approach is compromised.
• Withdraw – To remove oneself from a situation or to pull back.
• Regress – To return to a less developed state or condition.
• Conservative approach – A method that involves being cautious and relying on established strategies rather than taking risks.
• Stand down – To relax or cease action, often after being in a heightened state of readiness.
• Reserve – Something kept back for future use, serving as a backup or alternative.

Other Ways to Say “Fall Back”

Like all idiomatic phrases, “fall back” can be said in many different ways. Some of the other things you could say to convey the same meaning include:

• Retreat
• Go cool off
• Calm down
• Withdraw
• Reserve or option

“Fall Back” Examples

Examples in Statements

A statement made in the local newspaper about the town’s finances.

• “If we run out of funding that we received as donations for the project, we can fall back on the city’s budget reserves to ensure it is completed successfully.”

A statement made by a celebrity during an interview for a popular entertainment magazine.

• “I always said that if I could not make it in Hollywood, I would always have my career as a couch potato to fall back on. It’s a good thing I succeeded in Hollywood.”

Examples in Conversations

A conversation between two friends talking about their upcoming camping trip.

• Friend 1: Are you ready for the camping trip this weekend?
• Friend 2: I think so, but I still have to check my tent. Last season, I am pretty sure it ripped when a branch landed on it.
• Friend 1: It’s no big deal if it does. We always have my tent as a fall back.

A conversation between two co-workers on the job.

• Co-worker 1: What are we going to do if Cindy does not show up again tomorrow?
• Co-worker 2: I don’t know honestly. We need the extra hands to complete this project by the deadline.
• Co-worker 1: We could always use Paul as a fall back. He is dependable and a quick learner. He could step in for her.

More useful examples:

• You can always fall back on him when you are in difficulties.
• The battle is going badly for us, we’d better fall back on the town in the hills.
• Our attack was so vigorous that the enemy had to fall back to the river bank.
• It’s very hard if you have no family to fall back on.