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bite back

B2 neutral inseparable both
In simple words

To fight back with words, OR to hold back something you were about to say.

Literal meaning: To bite in return — as an animal would bite back if attacked.

Meanings

1 B2 neutral

To respond sharply or aggressively to an attack, criticism, or accusation.

"When the journalist questioned her integrity, the senator bit back with a list of her achievements."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 idiomatic neutral

To stop yourself from expressing an emotion or saying something you were about to say.

"She bit back the angry words that were rising in her throat and smiled politely."

"He bit back the retort that rose to his lips."

— J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Has two distinct senses: (1) to respond sharply in retaliation, often verbally, and (2) to suppress an emotion, response, or remark. Both senses are common in journalism and everyday speech. Neutral register, suitable in most contexts.

Commonly used with

tears anger response retort criticism emotion

Forms

Base
bite back
I/you/we/they
3rd person
bites back
he/she/it
Past simple
bited back
yesterday
Past participle
bited back
have + pp
-ing form
biting back
continuous

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