Q.1 Even though I had planned to go skiing with my friends, I had to __________ at the
last moment because of an injury.
Select the most appropriate option to complete the above sentence.
(A) back up
(B) back of
(C) back on
(D) back out

The correct option is (D) back out. This phrasal verb perfectly fits the context of withdrawing from plans at the last moment due to an unforeseen issue like an injury.​

Option Breakdown

• (A) Back up: Means to support someone, make a copy of data, or move backwards (e.g., “I’ll back you up in the meeting” or “Back up your files”). It does not convey withdrawing from plans.​

• (B) Back of: Not a standard English phrasal verb; “back of” is a preposition phrase referring to a location (e.g., “the back of the house”). It makes no sense here.​

• (C) Back on: Rarely used as a phrasal verb; can imply putting something back (e.g., “back on track”) but not canceling commitments. Unfit for this sentence.​

• (D) Back out: Means to withdraw from or cancel a commitment, agreement, or plan, especially last-minute (e.g., “They backed out of the deal”). Matches the skiing plans and injury perfectly.​

“Even though I had planned to go skiing with my friends, I had to back out at the last moment because of an injury.” This common exam question tests phrasal verb knowledge, crucial for English sections in GATE, CSIR NET, and other competitive tests. Understanding options like back up, back of, back on, and back out boosts verbal ability scores.​

Why “Back Out” Wins

“Back out” specifically means to pull out of a promise, plan, or deal after agreeing—ideal for last-minute cancellations due to injury or changes. Example: “She had to back out of the race due to a sprain.” No other option fits this context in everyday or exam English.​

Common Mistakes with Similar Phrasals

Phrasal verbs with “back” confuse learners—here’s a quick comparison table for clarity:

Tips for Exams

Practice sentences like “I had to back out at the last moment” to memorize. Focus on context: injury implies unavoidable withdrawal, not support (back up) or retreat (back off). Regular quizzes on phrasal verbs improve speed for verbal ability sections.​​