pull back

verb

1. to return or be returned to a rearward position by pulling

   the army pulled back

noun

1. the act of pulling back

2. a device for restraining the motion of a mechanism, etc, or for returning it to its original position

Idioms and Phrases

Retreat, as in The troops gradually pulled back. [Mid-1500s]

Example Sentences

When the first wave pulled back, the debris around him loosened and sank, and he was able to climb onto a nearby roof.

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Despite “moments” when markets can pull back quickly, he said he’s more focused on the long-term opportunity.

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"Even after the pay package was proposed, he didn't pull back from his political commentary," adds Prof Lipton.

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Stocks have pulled back this month in stocks, but the bull market has remained intact, with the S&P 500 up 14.8% this year, according to FactSet data.

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Powers pulled back on the wheel to bring it up.

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Related Words

• confine 
• constrain 
• control 
• curb 
• curtail 
• detain 
• deter 
• govern 
• hamper 
• hinder 
• inhibit 
• keep down 
• kill 
• limit 
• prevent 
• repress 
• restrict 
• subdue 
• suppress