back on drinking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "back on drinking" is not standard in written English and may cause confusion.
It could be used informally to indicate a return to drinking alcohol after a period of abstinence. Example: "After a month of sobriety, I found myself back on drinking during the holidays."

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

**At baseline, self reported ever feeling at least one of: need to cut back on drinking, annoyed at anyone who suggested to cut back on drinking, need for an "eye opener" or early morning drink, and guilty about drinking.

British Medical Journal

§At baseline, participant self reported ever feeling at least one of: need to cut back on drinking, annoyed at anyone who suggested to cut back on drinking, need for "eye-opener" or early morning drink, and guilty about drinking.

British Medical Journal

It means people are cutting back on drinking because they have less money and alcohol has become more expensive.

The Guardian

Delegates have some free time in the hotel, but most hold back on drinking because their roommate is a stranger.

The Guardian

When consumers began to cut back on drinking out, the company was left with thousands of unprofitable inns.

The Guardian - Business

Withdrawal symptoms – After stopping or cutting back on drinking, symptoms are anxiety, sweating, trembling, trouble sleeping, nausea or vomiting, and, in severe cases, physical seizures and hallucinations.

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

Young people, news reports tell us, are turning their backs on drinking and recreational drugs.

The Guardian

In his first fireside chat he recalled the fisherman from Maine who had sought advice on his hearing and was told to cut back on his drinking; when later asked why he had kept on drinking his answer was, "I liked what I was drinking so much better than what I was hearing (from FDR) that I just kept on drinking".

Huffington Post

They just keep on drinking".

The New York Times

Then carry on drinking.

The Guardian - Opinion

A recent study by the government-funded Drinkaware campaign found that one in five adults want to cut back on their drinking.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing sensitive topics like addiction or recovery, consider using more formal or clinical language such as "resuming alcohol consumption" instead of "back on drinking" to maintain a professional tone.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "back on drinking" in formal writing or professional settings. Opt for phrases like "resumed drinking" or "returned to alcohol use" for greater clarity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "back on drinking" functions as an informal way to describe the resumption of alcohol consumption, typically after a period of abstinence or reduced drinking. It implies a return to a previous habit or behavior.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "back on drinking" is an informal expression used to describe a return to alcohol consumption after a period of abstinence or reduction. While it appears in various sources, including news and media, science, and wiki articles, it is generally considered informal and less suitable for formal writing. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is acceptable, but advises considering the context. For professional or academic settings, it's recommended to use more formal alternatives such as "resuming drinking" or "returning to alcohol use". The usage patterns suggest its commonality in general discussions about alcohol habits but less in formal domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resuming drinking

Focuses on the act of starting to drink again after a pause.

returning to drinking

Similar to resuming, but with a stronger implication of habit.

relapsing into alcohol use

Highlights a return to problematic alcohol consumption, often after recovery efforts.

falling back into drinking

Suggests a gradual and often unintentional return to drinking habits.

getting back into drinking

Implies renewed interest and engagement in drinking.

taking up drinking again

Emphasizes the initiation or re-initiation of drinking habits.

continuing to drink

Indicates an ongoing pattern of alcohol consumption without interruption.

persisting with drinking

Suggests determination to keep drinking despite potential consequences.

maintaining alcohol consumption

Focuses on keeping a consistent level of alcohol intake.

re-engaging in alcohol consumption

Highlights a conscious choice to return to drinking alcohol.

FAQs

What does "back on drinking" mean?

The phrase "back on drinking" typically means someone has started drinking alcohol again after a period of not drinking or attempting to reduce their alcohol consumption.

What can I say instead of "back on drinking"?

You can use alternatives like "resuming drinking", "relapsing into alcohol use", or "returning to drinking" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "back on drinking" in formal writing?

While understood, "back on drinking" is generally considered informal. For formal writing, it's better to use phrases like "resumed alcohol consumption" or "returned to drinking".

How do I address someone who is "back on drinking" after recovery?

Approach the situation with empathy and understanding. Offer support and encourage them to seek professional help. Avoid judgment and focus on providing a safe space for them to share their struggles.