circle back
Americanverb phrase
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to return to an earlier point on a path, trip, etc., often by a different route so as to make a loop.
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to return to an earlier point, topic of conversation, or stage in a process.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
It is the prime minister's judgement which his critics circle back to again and again, every time the story returns.
From BBC ● Mar. 11, 2026
While the views expressed may vary, conversations about Alberta independence typically circle back to oil.
From Barron's ● Jan. 29, 2026
Others avoided mentioning any desire for bodily change, lest the conversation circle back to mindset rather than concrete goals.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jan. 2, 2026
Lewandowski brought Yoho into Noem’s inner circle back in South Dakota, according to two people familiar with the matter, putting the young consultant in charge of the ad side of her 2022 gubernatorial reelection campaign.
From Salon ● Nov. 15, 2025
Ray moves for the steps, ready to circle back around the nest, ready to join Axel on any adventure he would like.
From "A Bird Will Soar" by Alison Green Myers
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
