rear back

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Explanation of "Rear Back"

Definition: "Rear back" is a verb phrase that means to move away or backward, especially in a way that shows surprise, fear, anger, or protest. It can also refer to an animal, like a horse, standing on its hind legs.

Usage Instructions:

• "Rear back" is often used to describe a reaction to something shocking or frightening.
• It can be used both literally (about animals) and figuratively (about people or emotions).

Examples:

1. Literal Usage: "When the loud noise startled the horse, it reared back on its hind legs."
2. Figurative Usage: "When she heard the unfair comment, she reared back in surprise and anger."

Advanced Usage:

In advanced contexts, "rear back" can be used in discussions about body language or emotional reactions. For instance, "He reared back at the accusation, demonstrating his shock and disbelief."

Word Variants:

• Rear (verb): To raise or lift something up.
• Back (adverb): Moving to an earlier position or place.

Different Meanings:

• Rear: Can also mean the back part of something (like a vehicle or building) or to take care of and raise someone (like children).
• Back: Can refer to the opposite side of something or support someone.

Synonyms:

• Flinch back
• Recoil
• Withdraw
• Start back

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Rear up": Similar to "rear back," often used for animals standing on hind legs.
• "Pull back": To retreat or withdraw from a situation.

Summary:

"Rear back" describes a physical or emotional retreat, often triggered by surprise or fear. It can be used in various contexts, both for animals and for people's reactions.

Academic

Verb

1. start with anger or resentment or in protest
2. rear backwards on its hind legs
   • the frightened horse reared back