fall behind

phrase

Definition of fall behindnext
as in delay
to move or act slowly He lost his footing and fell behind in the relay.

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of fall behind With the score tied 4-all, Mitchell fell behind 0-2 against reliever Tanner Scott leading off the sixth before taking three straight balls to run the count full. — ABC News, 15 Oct. 2026 Carter Hart stopped 24 shots for the Golden Knights, who fell behind 3-0 in the first period for the second time in three games. — CBS News, 13 Oct. 2026 Dallas fell behind 27-0 in the second quarter, capped by a 64-yard pick-six off quarterback Dak Prescott. — Jim Barnes, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 Oct. 2026 Thomasville fell behind for the first time in the game with 70 seconds left. — Jack Leo, AJC.com, 9 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for fall behind

Browse Nearby Words

fall back on
fall behind
fall down
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fall behind.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fall%20behind. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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