Question 1

What does "fall back upon" mean?

Accepted Answer

To use a reserve resource, principle, or skill when primary options have failed; formal equivalent of 'fall back on'.

Question 2

How do you use "fall back upon" in a sentence?

Accepted Answer

With no contemporary legal precedent, the judge was forced to fall back upon centuries-old common law.

Question 3

Is "fall back upon" formal or informal?

Accepted Answer

"fall back upon" is formal — used mainly in written or official contexts. Functionally identical to 'fall back on'. The 'upon' form is more formal and more common in written, literary, or official contexts. In everyday speech, 'fall back on' is strongly preferred.

fall back upon

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