step back

phrasal verb

stepped back; stepping back; steps back

: to stop doing something or being actively involved in something for a time so in order to think about it and make decisions in a calm and reasonable way

You need to step back and give yourself some time to work through this.

Examples of step back in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Leisurely explore the entertainment district with your favorite drink in hand, or step back in time at the Olde Town Historic Train Depot, a historic landmark built in 1891 as a vital stop along the Georgia Railroad. —Nicole Letts, Southern Living, 3 Jan. 2026

Some lawmakers frustrated with inaction on Capitol Hill plan to run for governor and other statewide offices, while others are stepping back from public office altogether. —Sudiksha Kochi, The Hill, 2 Jan. 2026

The Bear, Season 5 (Hulu) — TBD Carmy steps back, but the kitchen stays hot. —Okla Jones, Essence, 1 Jan. 2026

In the months before his death, the internet personality opened up about taking a step back from social media and his mental health. —Luke Chinman, PEOPLE, 30 Dec. 2025

Rhymes for step back

• aback
• anzac
• attack
• backpack
• backtrack
• bareback
• blackjack
• brownback
• buyback
• callback
• cognac
• comeback