back away

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 .

Example Sentences

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has said the government's Budget is unravelling before it has even been delivered, after the chancellor appeared to back away from raising income tax rates following weeks of damaging stories.

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A flurry of AI announcements didn’t stop the stock selloff, but don’t bet on Big Tech companies backing away from their investments while private money continues to flow in.

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Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has said the government's Budget is unravelling before it has even been delivered, after the chancellor backed away from raising income tax rates.

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“Well, it’s important to have all food groups,” I respond quickly, backing away.

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Penelope curtsied and backed away as quickly as seemed polite.

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