How Do You Spell ROW BACK?

Pronunciation: [ɹˈə͡ʊ bˈak] (IPA)

The correct spelling of the phrase "row back" is [rəʊ bæk], with "row" pronounced as [rəʊ] and "back" pronounced as [bæk]. This phrase means to retract or reverse a decision that has been made. It is commonly used in politics and involves a person altering their plans or stance after receiving criticism or objections. The pronunciation of the word "row" is often confused with the homophone "roe," but the correct pronunciation emphasises the "o" sound in the word.

ROW BACK Meaning and Definition

1. "Row back" is a phrasal verb that is primarily used in British English to describe retracting or reversing a previously made decision, action, or statement. It implies an admission or acceptance that the initial stance was incorrect or no longer feasible.

   The term "row back" often signifies a change in position due to external factors, such as public pressure, feedback, or new information coming to light. It reflects a willingness to amend the previous position and move in a different direction. This phrasal verb is commonly used in situations involving politics, business, or public relations.

   For instance, a government official may "row back" on a policy announcement after facing criticism or realizing the impracticality of the plan. Similarly, a company might "row back" on a product launch if market conditions change, or a politician may "row back" on a controversial statement following public backlash.

   The term can also imply a sense of apology or regret for the initial decision or statement. It suggests a recognition of one's error in judgment or lack of foresight. In this regard, "row back" can be seen as an act of humility, acknowledging that the original position or course of action was flawed or no longer tenable.

   Overall, "row back" denotes a reversal or retraction of a previous decision, action, or statement, typically including a sense of acknowledging faults or limitations.

Common Misspellings for ROW BACK

• eow back
• dow back
• fow back
• tow back
• 5ow back
• 4ow back
• riw back
• rkw back
• rlw back
• rpw back
• r0w back
• r9w back
• roq back
• roa back
• ros back
• roe back
• ro3 back
• ro2 back
• row vack
• row nack

Etymology of ROW BACK

The phrase "row back" does not have a specific etymology as it is derived from the individual meanings of the two words that make up the phrase.

"Row" is derived from Middle English "rowen" or "rowi", meaning "to propel a boat with oars". It can be traced back to the Old English word "rōwan". "Back" comes from Old English "bæc" meaning "the rear part". Both words have their origins in Germanic languages.

When combined, the phrase "row back" generally refers to the action of rowing a boat in reverse, essentially moving backward. However, "rowing back decisions" or "rowing back on promises" can also be used figuratively to describe retracting or reversing a previous action or statement.

Idioms with the word ROW BACK

• row back To row back means to retreat from a position or decision; to backtrack on a statement or commitment.