hang back

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.

In retrospect, he said, he would have made a move on the leaders earlier had he known the pack was going to hang back.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 21, 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

She knows when to hang back and when to attack.

From Washington Times • Jun. 9, 2023

“It may make sense for females to hang back with calves that are vulnerable,” said lead author Jennifer Tennessen, a senior research scientist at the University of Washington’s Center for Ecosystem Sentinels.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 13, 2023

There was the shifty rustling of unreadiness but finally a boy of fourteen led us off and I dared not hang back, as much as I hated the idea of seeing Mrs. Taylor.

From "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" by Maya Angelou