BACK OUT Synonyms: 32 Similar and Opposite Words

back out

verb

Definition of back out

as in to back down

to break a promise or agreement she backed out on her offer to help with the wedding planning

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Example Sentences

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 out So naturally, Melvin came back onto the test kitchen to grab some of the dip before dipping back out and apologizing. — Rachel McRady, PEOPLE, 13 Aug. 2026 Nagiewicz said they were likely washed back out to sea by the incoming tide. — Ross Dimattei, CBS News, 12 Aug. 2026 Cell phone records show that the boyfriend did reach back out to Stine after their meet up, but there was no response. — Eileen Murphy, ABC News, 11 Aug. 2026 This means insects can simply crawl right back out once the suction stops and is especially true of bagless models. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 11 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for back out

Recent Examples of Synonyms for back out

Verb

The build plate is completely flat, which prevents resin from dripping back down into the resin tray.

— Michael Lydick, PC Magazine, 21 Aug. 2026
Quincy Mayor Tom Koch is not backing down and has downplayed the religious meaning of the statues.

— Neal Riley, CBS News, 20 Aug. 2026

Definition of back down

Verb

Cinema United, the movie theater trade organization, once vociferously opposed to the merger, backed off Tuesday and called for a settlement to avoid industry uncertainty.

— Katie Kilkenny, HollywoodReporter, 20 Aug. 2026
The Los Angeles district attorney has backed off felony charges against a police officer who secretly recorded his colleagues making racist remarks after facing criticism the response was too harsh and could deter whistleblowers from coming forward.

— ABC News, ABC News, 19 Aug. 2026

Definition of back off

Verb

Strategic shakeup Usually buying and selling is a cop out, but with where the Red Sox are in their competitive cycle the approach might make some sense.

— Mac Cerullo, Boston Herald, 31 May 2026
The case highlighted limits in Colorado's police oversight despite significant recent reforms aimed at forcing dishonest cops out of the profession.

— Shelly Bradbury, Denver Post, 22 May 2026

Definition of cop out

Verb

The advisory follows glutathione’s use in the Altadena and Spokane wildfires and recalls at two pharmacies, where usage was linked to fevers, chills, severe headaches and other symptoms.

— Martha Bellisle, Los Angeles Times, 23 Aug. 2026
The memories will come rushing back for Husker fans recalling their 62-24 Fiesta Bowl win against the Gators to claim the 1995 national title.

— Scott Dochterman, New York Times, 23 Aug. 2026

Definition of recall

Browse Nearby Words

back off

back out

backpack

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“Back out.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/back%20out. Accessed 26 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of back out

verb

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