back away

VERB

move away backwards

Synonyms

WEAK

back out backpedal crawfish pull back retreat withdraw

Antonyms

WEAK

move forward stay

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He has had to back away - at least temporarily - from the kind of fight he has frequently relished.

From BBC • Feb. 8, 2026

Local politicians have called for Wasserman to back away from the Olympics committee.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 6, 2026

Tech executives might back away from AI investments if things get bad enough.

From Barron's • Feb. 6, 2026

Expectations for the banks are higher, as regulators back away from the industry.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 12, 2026

She was already starting, as quietly as she could, step by step, to back away toward the mantelpiece.

From "Coraline" by Neil Gaiman