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

Don’t even think about backing off to change gear or grabbing some clutch. — New Atlas, 13 July 2026

According to attorney Justin Smith, Erickson’s representative on the recount board, each candidate’s personal legal counsel needs to back off. — Angela George, Sioux Falls Argus Leader, 8 July 2026

Engage your abs to lift your shoulder blades and upper back off the floor, bringing your upper body closer to your knees. — Sarah Bence, Verywell Health, 7 July 2026

The Houthis had backed off any attacks on shipping in the Red Sea since Israel and Hamas came to a ceasefire to end their two-year war last fall. — Glenn Taylor, Footwear News, 6 July 2026