The phrasal verb "put back" is most commonly used in informal speech, though it can appear in more formal contexts depending on the subject matter. It generally means returning something to its original place or reversing an alteration. For example, in an informal setting, one might say, "Please put the book back on the shelf." This usage indicates a physical action of returning an item. Another common usage involves rescheduling or delaying, as in "The meeting has been put back until next week," which is slightly more formal and may appear in both spoken and written communication. Additionally, "put back" can connote financial restoration, like in phrases such as "We need to put back the funds that were withdrawn." Overall, the contexts for "put back" can range from mundane daily tasks to administrative and financial settings, demonstrating its versatility.
B1
PreIntermediate
1. To return something to its original place.
Please put back the book when you finish reading it.
After examining the artifact, the archaeologist put it back on display.
2. To delay a planned event or action.
The meeting was put back to the following week due to scheduling conflicts.
The concert was put back by an hour because of technical issues.