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Definitions

take back

VERB
retract
Synonyms
STRONGEST
cancel reclaim renege repeal repossess rescind revoke withdraw
WEAK
abjure back down backpedal call off change one's mind eat one's words forget it go back on have change of heart recall recant repudiate
Antonyms
STRONGEST
allow approve permit

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.

"I wanted to go into that period of my life in a positive way and take back control."

From BBC • Apr. 12, 2026

Birmingham coach Gus Villalobos was preparing to take back his players’ uniforms this week to end the season.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 26, 2026

Takaichi has refused to take back her remarks, despite China squeezing access to Chinese rare-earth metals and magnets needed by Japanese companies.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 6, 2026

He marked it by being sent off in the second half, but PSG scored late on with 10 men to win 2-1 and take back top spot in Ligue 1 from Lens.

From Barron's • Feb. 2, 2026

C.P. felt certain that the time had come to take back his city, indeed to reclaim the South.

From "The Best of Enemies" by Osha Gray Davidson