hang back

British  

verb

1. to be reluctant to go forward or carry on (with some activity)

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hang back Idioms  

1. Be reluctant to move ahead, hold back. For example, They hung back at the entrance, fearful that they wouldn't be admitted, or We hung back to let our parents go in first. [Second half of 1500s]

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Example Sentences

It’s tempting to hang back, especially as companies rein in travel spending.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 23, 2026

Whether donning a tracksuit to join a fun-run along Windhoek's Independence Avenue, or insisting his driver hang back from official motorcades, he aimed to be a man of the people.

From BBC • Feb. 8, 2025

With a piece like this, an outfit serves either to match its energy or hang back to let it shine.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 18, 2023

“Now, the first time there’s a real challenge we actually see, security forces are willing to hang back and wait and see what happens,” he told AP.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 6, 2023

I hang back a little, but then there’s no more stalling: “Conover, two fifty-four,” I say.

From "Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing" by Ted Conover