BACK AWAY Synonyms: 42 Similar and Opposite Words

back away

verb

as in to withdraw

to move back or away (as from something difficult, dangerous, or disagreeable) backed away from the snake very slowly and carefully

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of back away Medical groups representing doctors and patients were dismayed at the agency's decision to back away from tougher regulation of the devices, which are available at tanning salons and some major gym chains. —

Will Stone, NPR, 19 Mar. 2026 The unidentified man backed away from Martin, still chewing the cigarette, and waved to the camera before the broadcast cut away. —

Kaycee Sloan, Cincinnati Enquirer, 12 Mar. 2026 The two-time Oscar nominee had to back away from any consideration for the part due to her future production schedules on Batman II and The Exorcist reboot. —

Dessi Gomez, Deadline, 10 Mar. 2026 The following week, the benchmark climbed more than 5% as the White House backed away from the most aggressive proposals. —

Fred Imbert, CNBC, 10 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for back away

Recent Examples of Synonyms for back away

Verb

The streaming giant’s stock price doesn’t yet reflect it, but analysts’ uniformly positive reaction is perhaps the biggest vote of confidence by the Street since Netflix last month withdrew its proposal to acquire Warner Bros.

— Dade Hayes, Deadline, 27 Mar. 2026
If earnings are withdrawn early and don’t qualify for an exception, a 10% additional tax penalty may apply.

— Allison Palmer, Kansas City Star, 27 Mar. 2026