Synonyms of back down

back down

verb

as in to back out

to break a promise or agreement

if you back down about dinner again, I'm not going to agree to another date

Synonyms & Similar Words

• back out
• back off
• cop out
• recall
• go back on
• withdraw
• fink out
• chicken (out)
• renege
• retract
• take back
• wimp out
• beg off
• cry off
• backtrack
• recant
• backpedal
• unsay
• forswear
• disavow
• abjure
• abnegate
• repudiate

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• adhere (to)
• comply (with)
• follow through (with)
• keep
• honor
• satisfy
• fulfill

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of back down

The measure will come as talks between Tehran and Washington have stalled, with both sides refusing to back down on their demands. —Mitchell McCluskey, CNN Money, 2 May 2026

When the rich and powerful special interests show up, politicians back down. —Tom Steyer, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 May 2026

Looping back down toward town through the devastating remains of beachfront houses and empty lots lost during the Palisades Fire served as another reminder of where DTaC’s fundraising can help anyone battling Parkinson’s. —Michael Van Runkle, Robb Report, 1 May 2026

The crowd thundered as the giant screen lowered back down like a curtain. —Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 30 Apr. 2026