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3. go back on

go back on

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go back on something

to fail to do what you promised you would do The mayor has gone back on several promises. Once I said I'd come I couldn't go back on it.

Usage notes: usually used in the form go back on your word: The president pledged to protect Social Security and does not want to be seen as going back on his word.

Related vocabulary: break your word

See also: back, on

go back on

Fail to honor or keep, as in You can't go back on your word, or One should never go back on a promise. [Mid-1800s]

See also: back, on