Synonyms of back off

back off

verb

as in to back down

to break a promise or agreement

you'd better not back off on your promise to do all the planning for the big dance

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of back off

But a New York Times report published Tuesday shows one of the most prominent GOP donors has quietly backed off. — Sydney Lake, Fortune, 5 Aug. 2026

Now Payton’s team will slowly ramp up toward a rugged Wednesday practice, likely back off slightly after that and then have a couple more tough days through Saturday. — Parker Gabriel, Denver Post, 3 Aug. 2026

And, Michelle, as Donna just pointed out, Jeanine Pirro says no to the president, backs off the charges, immediately gets attacked by both Doug Burgum and the president. — ABC News, 2 Aug. 2026

When the wind switches or an outside factor becomes evident, Fox will back off his shot. — Gabby Herzig, New York Times, 20 July 2026