fall back on

[fall back on] or [fall back upon] v.

1. To retreat to.

* /The enemy made a strong attack, and the soldiers fell back on the fort./

2. To go for help to; turn to in time of need.

* /When the big bills for Mother's hospital care came, Joe was glad he had money in the bank to fall back on./

* /If Mr. Jones can't find a job as a teacher, he can fall back on his skill as a printer./

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Source: A Dictionary of American Idioms


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