back away

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Definition

Verb: - To move backwards away from something, typically because of fear, caution, or a desire to withdraw from a situation or commitment.

Usage

The verb "back away" describes the physical act of moving backward to create distance, often from something perceived as threatening, unpleasant, or demanding. It is also used figuratively to describe withdrawing from a promise, plan, or involvement.

Examples

  • Literal (Physical Movement):

    • The cat hissed, causing the dog to back away slowly.
    • When the crowd became aggressive, the police officer had to back away from the barrier.

  • Figurative (Withdrawal from Commitment/Situation):

    • After seeing the complexity of the project, the investor began to back away.
    • She backed away from her earlier statement when presented with new evidence.
Advanced Usage
  • "to back away from something": This is the standard construction, where "from" introduces the thing being retreated from.
    • The government is backing away from its proposed tax reforms due to public pressure.
Variants and Related Words
  • Back off (phrasal verb): Often used interchangeably with "back away," especially in contexts involving stopping aggression or pressure.
    • I told him to back off and give me some space.
Synonyms
  • Retreat: To move back or withdraw, especially from conflict or danger.
  • Withdraw: To remove oneself from participation or a location.
  • Recede: To move back or away (often used for things like waterlines or hairlines, but can be figurative).
Related Phrasal Verbs
  • Back down: To withdraw a claim, demand, or position in an argument.
    • He refused to back down from the debate.
  • Back out: To withdraw from a commitment or promise.
    • They backed out of the deal at the last minute.
Related Idioms
  • Beat a retreat: To withdraw quickly, especially from a difficult situation.
    • Seeing the manager's anger, he decided to beat a hasty retreat.
Verb
  1. make a retreat from an earlier commitment or activity
    • We'll have to crawfish out from meeting with him
    • He backed out of his earlier promise
    • The aggressive investment company pulled in its horns

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