step back

phrasal-verb
UK: /ˌstep ˈbæk/
US: /ˌstep ˈbæk/

  1. To move backwards, away from someone or something.

    1. I had to step back to see the whole painting clearly. [ ] [ ]
    2. When the dog started barking, I decided to step back slowly and avoid any trouble. [ ] [ ]

  2. To temporarily withdraw from a role, responsibility, or situation.

    1. He decided to step back from his job to care for his family. [ ] [ ]
    2. After the scandal, the CEO chose to step back from day-to-day operations for a while. [ ] [ ]

  3. To reconsider a decision or plan.

    1. Let's step back and think about how this will impact our sales. [ ] [ ]
    2. Maybe we should step back from this deal if the terms are not favorable in the long run. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

recede withdraw retreat reconsider reevaluate pause
step back noun

  1. The act of moving backwards or away.

    1. His step back was a sign that he was scared. [ ] [ ]
    2. The company's step back from the project was unexpected, but ultimately beneficial. [ ] [ ]

  2. A temporary withdrawal or distancing from a role or situation.

    1. Her step back from the leadership allowed the team to find a new direction. [ ] [ ]
    2. His step back provided time to reflect, and helped him avoid making a rash decision. [ ] [ ]

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "step back" in English means: To move backwards, away from someone or something., To temporarily withdraw from a role, responsibility, or situation., To reconsider a decision or plan..

The phonetic transcription of "step back" is /ˌstep ˈbæk/ in British English and /ˌstep ˈbæk/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "step back": recede, withdraw, retreat, reconsider, reevaluate, pause.

Example usage of "step back": "I had to step back to see the whole painting clearly.". More examples on the page.