HANG BACK Synonyms: 42 Similar and Opposite Words

hang back

verb

as in to hesitate

to show uncertainty about the right course of action she hung back in offering her opinion about her daughter's career choices because it wasn't her business

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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 hang back While Judy tends to overdo it, Nick hangs back in his easygoing way and lets things fall into place. —

Katie Grant, Parents, 25 Nov. 2025 Dad is hanging back in the doorway. —

Literary Hub, 24 Nov. 2025 Afterward, while players sat at a long table under one of the baskets, providing autographs for fans, Farokhmanesh hung back. —

Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 19 Oct. 2025 Seeing the body language of his double-play partner, second baseman Isiah Kiner-Falefa hung back as well. —

Ken Rosenthal, New York Times, 17 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for hang back

Recent Examples of Synonyms for hang back

Verb

From coordinating painting, flooring and cabinet removal to troubleshooting daily obstacles during the summer, Higman answered every call, provided solutions and never hesitated to step in, according to Filamor.

— Cyril A. Reinicke, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Mar. 2026
Alvarez, seeing his pitcher hesitate, tapped his helmet for a challenge.

— Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 26 Mar. 2026