Fall back
Fall back
The phrasal verb 'fall back' is commonly used when someone resorts to a less preferred but known method or support mechanism in times of trouble. For example, if newer technologies fail during a presentation, you might 'fall back' on traditional flip charts or handouts. It signifies a retreat to familiar and reliable alternatives when faced with challenges or failures, emphasizing a strategic or safety-first approach in both personal and professional realms.
In case of emergency, we need a plan to fall back on.
In case of an emergency, we need a backup plan.
He decided to fall back on his savings when he lost his job.
He decided to rely on his savings when he lost his job.
If this plan doesn’t work, we'll have something else to fall back on.
If this plan doesn’t work, we'll have an alternative option.