Grammar fix
back out
break an agreement
To decide not to do something that you previously agreed or promised to do.
phrasal verb
How oftenCommon
LevelB1
Used inSpeech & writing
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
He backed out of the trip two days before we were due to leave.
I once backed out of a weekend trip because I realised I couldn’t afford the extra costs.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: She backed out the agreement.
Say: She backed out of the agreement.
Use 'back out of' before the arrangement, plan, or commitment you leave.
Don't confuse it
Other ways to say it
Decide not to do what you agreed
How formalConversationalFormal
back outYou're here · Deciding not to do something you previously agreed to.
pull outEnding involvement in a deal, event, or activity.withdraw fromMore formal: ending participation in an activity or agreement.