step back
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
The blazing wide receiver took a bit of a step back in his one year with the Auburn Tigers, but in his two years prior with the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, Singleton put up 1,500 yards and nine touchdowns receiving while averaging over 14 yards per catch.
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Austin Perry Outkick, FOXNews.com, 8 May 2026
After an excellent 2024 season, Mayfield took a step back in 2025.
—Daniel Popper, New York Times, 6 May 2026
Take a step back, process it, and then respond clearly.
—Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 5 May 2026
No matter what sport or walk of life, taking a step back can be jarring, but Vahmistrovs took it the opposite way.
—Paul Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 5 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for step back
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Austin Perry Outkick, FOXNews.com, 8 May 2026
After an excellent 2024 season, Mayfield took a step back in 2025.
—Daniel Popper, New York Times, 6 May 2026
Take a step back, process it, and then respond clearly.
—Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 5 May 2026
No matter what sport or walk of life, taking a step back can be jarring, but Vahmistrovs took it the opposite way.
—Paul Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 5 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for step back
Cite this Entry
“Step back.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/step%20back. Accessed 11 May. 2026.
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