Master ‘Go back on’ to Ace Your IELTS Speaking Test

In the world of IELTS preparation, mastering phrasal verbs is crucial for achieving a high score. One such phrasal verb that can significantly enhance your language skills is “go back on.” Let’s explore this versatile expression and learn how to use it effectively in your IELTS Speaking test.

1. Definition and Explanation

The phrasal verb “go back on” means to fail to keep a promise or to break an agreement. It implies a reversal of one’s decision or commitment. Synonyms include “renege,” “break one’s word,” or “backtrack.”

Common usage:

• To go back on a promise
• To go back on one’s word
• To go back on an agreement

2. Usage in Context

“Go back on” is commonly used in both formal and informal situations. Here are some examples:

• Informal: “I can’t believe he went back on his promise to help me move!”
• Formal: “The company went back on its agreement to increase employee salaries.”
• Written: “The politician’s decision to go back on his campaign promises led to public outrage.”
• Spoken: “I hope the new management doesn’t go back on their commitment to flexible working hours.”

3. Grammar Analysis

“Go back on” is an inseparable phrasal verb, meaning you cannot place an object between “go back” and “on.” The correct structure is:

Subject + go back on + object

For example:

• Correct: “She went back on her word.”
• Incorrect: “She went back her word on.”

4. Application in IELTS

In Speaking:

You can use “go back on” to demonstrate your advanced vocabulary skills during the IELTS Speaking test. Here’s an example of how to incorporate it into your answers:

Question: “Describe a time when someone didn’t keep their promise to you.”

Sample answer: “I remember a situation where my colleague went back on his word. We had agreed to split the workload for a major project, but at the last minute, he backed out, leaving me to handle everything alone. It was disappointing to see him go back on our agreement, especially since I had trusted him.”

In Writing:

While “go back on” is more commonly used in speaking, you can also use it in your writing tasks to add sophistication to your language. However, be mindful of the formality level required in your essay.

Example for Writing Task 2: “In today’s fast-paced business world, companies that go back on their commitments to customers often face severe consequences, including loss of trust and reputation.”

Using 'go back on' in IELTS Speaking

5. Related Phrasal Verbs

To expand your vocabulary further, here are some related phrasal verbs:

1. Back out (of) /bæk aʊt/: To withdraw from an agreement or situation
   Example: “He backed out of the deal at the last minute.”

2. Let down /lɛt daʊn/: To disappoint someone by not doing what was expected
   Example: “I feel let down by my friend’s behavior.”

3. Fall through /fɔːl θruː/: To fail to happen or produce a result
   Example: “Our plans for a summer vacation fell through due to financial constraints.”

4. Stick to /stɪk tuː/: To adhere to a decision, plan, or agreement
   Example: “It’s important to stick to your commitments in both personal and professional life.”

5. Live up to /lɪv ʌp tuː/: To fulfill expectations or promises
   Example: “The new restaurant didn’t live up to the hype surrounding its opening.”

6. Practice Exercises

Fill in the blanks:

1. The government __ __ __ its promise to reduce taxes.
2. It’s disappointing when friends __ __ __ their word.
3. The company decided not to __ __ __ the merger agreement.
4. He’s known for __ __ __ commitments when things get tough.
5. Politicians often __ __ __ campaign promises after being elected.
6. She couldn’t __ __ __ the opportunity to study abroad.
7. The team captain refused to __ __ __ his decision to retire.
8. It’s unethical for businesses to __ __ __ contracts with suppliers.
9. He had to __ __ __ the project due to unforeseen circumstances.
10. The organization vowed never to __ __ __ its core values.

Rewrite the sentences:

1. The company didn’t keep its promise to hire more local workers.
   The company __

2. She broke her word about helping with the charity event.
   She __

3. The athlete decided not to retire as previously announced.
   The athlete __

4. Our neighbors changed their mind about selling their house to us.
   Our neighbors __

5. The school board reversed its decision to cut funding for arts programs.
   The school board __

6. He failed to fulfill his commitment to quit smoking.
   He __

7. The band canceled their reunion tour, disappointing many fans.
   The band __

8. The developer abandoned the plans for the new shopping center.
   The developer __

9. She didn’t follow through with her plan to start a new business.
   She __

10. The country’s leader broke the peace treaty signed last year.
    The country’s leader __

(Answers and explanations will be provided at the end of the article)

7. Memory Tips

To remember “go back on,” visualize someone walking backwards away from a promise or agreement. This mental image can help reinforce the meaning of breaking a commitment.

Another technique is to create a memorable phrase: “Don’t go back, move forward on your word.” This emphasizes the negative connotation of going back on a promise and encourages keeping commitments.

Visual memory aid for 'go back on'

8. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1. Incorrect word order: Remember, “go back on” is inseparable. Never say “go back something on.”

2. Confusing with similar phrases: Don’t mix up “go back on” with “go back to.” The latter means to return to a place or previous state.

3. Overuse: While it’s good to demonstrate your knowledge of phrasal verbs, overusing “go back on” can make your speech sound unnatural. Use it appropriately and in context.

4. Incorrect preposition: Always use “on” after “go back” in this context. Saying “go back of” or “go back to” changes the meaning entirely.

5. Misunderstanding the tone: Be aware that “go back on” often carries a negative connotation. Use it carefully in formal writing or when discussing sensitive topics in the IELTS test.

9. Conclusion

Mastering phrasal verbs like “go back on” can significantly enhance your performance in the IELTS Speaking and Writing tests. By understanding its meaning, usage, and related expressions, you’ll be able to express yourself more precisely and naturally. Remember to practice using this phrasal verb in various contexts to internalize its usage. With consistent effort, you’ll find yourself using “go back on” and other phrasal verbs with confidence, helping you achieve that higher band score in your IELTS test.

For more tips on improving your IELTS skills, check out our articles on describing a person who is good at giving constructive feedback and the benefits and drawbacks of homeschooling.

Answers to Practice Exercises:

Fill in the blanks:

1. went back on
2. go back on
3. go back on
4. going back on
5. go back on
6. back out of
7. go back on
8. go back on
9. back out of
10. go back on

Rewrite the sentences:

1. The company went back on its promise to hire more local workers.
2. She went back on her word about helping with the charity event.
3. The athlete went back on his decision to retire.
4. Our neighbors went back on their agreement to sell their house to us.
5. The school board went back on its decision to cut funding for arts programs.
6. He went back on his commitment to quit smoking.
7. The band went back on their promise to have a reunion tour, disappointing many fans.
8. The developer went back on the plans for the new shopping center.
9. She went back on her plan to start a new business.
10. The country’s leader went back on the peace treaty signed last year.

Remember, practice makes perfect! Keep using “go back on” in your everyday conversations and writing to become more comfortable with this useful phrasal verb.