force back

1. To cause someone or something to move away from someone or something else. A noun or pronoun can be used between "force" and "back." I jumped in front of the kids to force them back from the street. With a tug of the leash, Sophie forced Rover back from Mrs. Smith's garden. I knew they hadn't babyproofed the entire house, so I forced my toddler back to her playpen in the living room.

2. To cause someone or something to return to something. A noun or pronoun can be used between "force" and "back." The bell signaling the end of recess forced us back to class. I did have a nice lunch out with my co-workers—that is, until the boss forced us back to work. If Mom catches you playing video games, you know she's going to force you back to your book report.

3. To contain one's emotions. A noun or pronoun can be used between "force" and "back." I found myself forcing back tears during the play because the acting was just so good. You need to force back your anger before you say something you regret to the boss. A: "Mom, stop!" B: "No! I am just so proud of you, and I refuse to force back my joy!"

force back

1. To make someone or something retreat or return: A terrible storm forced the soldiers back to the camp. Hard up for money, the strikers were forced back to work.

2. To prevent the expression of one's own emotions: She forced back her laughter as she listened to the debate. He forced his anger back when he read the editorial.