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Definitions

bow out

VERB
back out
Synonyms
STRONGEST
bail out drop out pull out quit retire withdraw
WEAK
exit leave make one's exit walk away from
Antonyms
STRONGEST
begin continue join persevere remain stay
WEAK
opt in

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.

Wiener is also up against Connie Chan, a county supervisor and former Kamala Harris aide—the only major candidate who waited for Pelosi to bow out before opting in.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 26, 2025

Padilla’s decision to bow out of the 2026 governor’s race will leave a prominent name out of an already crowded contest with many contenders but not a clear favorite.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 4, 2025

Should he bow out, Boland is expected to lead the assault alongside Starc and Josh Hazlewood.

From Barron's • Oct. 25, 2025

But he was determined to bow out of the public eye with a customary bang.

From BBC • Jul. 22, 2025

As he followed her out, he said, “If you want, I could bow out now.”

From "When Dimple Met Rishi" by Sandhya Menon

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.