Word: Retract
Usage Instructions:
Simple Examples:
Physical Use: "The cat retracted its claws when it was no longer scared."
Taking Back a Statement: "After realizing he was wrong, the politician retracted his statement about the new law."
Advanced Usage:
Medical Use: In medicine, "retract" can refer to using instruments to hold open a wound or an organ during surgery. For example, "The surgeon retracted the edges of the incision to see better."
Formal Use: When someone retracts a belief or statement, it often happens under pressure or after reconsideration. For example, "She retracted her earlier comments after receiving new information."
Word Variants:
Retractable (adjective): Something that can be retracted. Example: "The retractable roof of the stadium opened for the game."
Retractor (noun): A tool used to hold back tissues during surgery. Example: "The surgeon used a retractor to keep the incision open."
Different Meanings:
Physical Pulling Back: Pulling something inward or towards a center (like a cat pulling its claws).
Taking Back Statements: Formally rejecting or disavowing something you previously believed or stated.
Synonyms:
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
"Take back one's words": This means to retract something you said. Example: "He had to take back his words after realizing they were hurtful."
"Backtrack": To go back on what you said or change your position. Example: "After the backlash, she had to backtrack on her comments."
Summary:
"Retract" is a versatile verb that can describe both a physical action of pulling something back and a mental or verbal action of taking back statements or beliefs.