back away

Idioms  

1. Walk backward, as in He cautiously backed away from the fire .

2. Gradually retreat, withdraw, as in Since he couldn't convince his colleagues, he's backing away from his original idea . Both usages employ the verb back in the sense of “retreat,” dating from the late 1400s. Also see back down ; back out .

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Example Sentences

Investors have backed away from financial stocks as their risk tolerance falls and fears mount that stalled oil trade will touch off a global energy crisis.

From The Wall Street Journal

And it is backing away from plans to redevelop some of its stores into hotels or condominiums.

From The Wall Street Journal

I backed away, stepping on one plant, shaking the edge of my skirt where the plant had left a smear of brownish ooze.

From Literature

The glowing head backed away, came forward once more.

From Literature

I brushed off the dirt and backed away a little.

From Literature