Phrasal verb
take back
To take back means to regain possession of something you gave or lent, or to return something to a store.
Meanings
to regain possession of something you gave, lent, or lost
to return an item to a store
to withdraw a statement or admit you were wrong about what you said
Definition
When you take back something, you get it back after giving it away, lending it, or losing it. You can also take back an item by returning it to a shop for a refund or exchange. In conversation, take back can also mean to admit what you said was wrong and withdraw your words.
Examples
- I want to take back the book I lent you last week.
- Can you take back this jacket if it doesn’t fit you?
- He had to take back his comment after he learned the full story.
- She went to the shop to take back the blender she bought yesterday.
- They refused to take back what they said during the meeting.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse take back (return/reclaim) with bring back (carry something back or cause something to return).
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.