Definition & Meaning of "look back"in English

to look back

[phrase form: look]

VERB

to think about or consider past events, experiences, or decisions

Intransitive: to look back on events or experiences | to look back at events or experiences

Examples

He looked back on his childhood with fondness and nostalgia.

She looked back on her life with regret, wishing she had made different choices.

to turn one's head to see what is behind or happening behind

Intransitive

Examples

When I looked back, I saw David walking towards me.

She looked back to make sure no one was following her.

to revisit written material for the purpose of recalling or reviewing its content

Intransitive: to look back at written material | to look back on written material

Examples

The student looked back at their notes before starting to work on their essay.

The scientist looked back at their lab notes to double-check their experimental procedures.

to not look back

PHRASE

to achieve rapid or exceptional success, often continuing to improve without pause

to {not} [look] back definition and meaning

Idiom

Examples

After launching her startup, she did n't look back.

Once he changed careers, he did n't look back.

to have no desire or intention to return to past circumstances

Idiom

What is the origin of the idiom "not look back" and when to use it?

The phrase "not look back" is an idiom used to describe a forward-focused, determined approach, emphasizing that once a decision or action is taken, one should continue moving forward without dwelling on the past. The origin of this phrase is not precisely documented, but it is a widely used expression to convey the idea of strong commitment to a chosen course of action or decision.

Examples

After leaving his hometown to pursue his dreams in the city, he made a pact with himself to not look back and focus on his future.

She decided to end her toxic relationship and never looked back, choosing to build a better life for herself.