back off

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.

Once again Rutte stepped in to talk Trump down, getting him to back off with a compromise that kicked the issue down the road.

From Barron's • Jul. 6, 2026

Then, his blind shot to the ninth green came back off the front of the green.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 18, 2026

Nearly three seconds clear after two laps, five after 10, he had to back off to cool overheating brakes.

From BBC • Jun. 7, 2026

Deborah famously tried to muzzle Ava a few times, only to back off when she realized that by hurting her protégé, she was wounding herself.

From Salon • May 29, 2026

Harry felt his hair fly back off his forehead; his nerves left him in the thrill of the flight; he glanced around, saw Malfoy on his tail, and sped off in search of the Snitch.

From "Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban" by J.K. Rowling