as in hesitates
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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Recent Examples of hangs back
Asia hangs back from fetch, left; and right, Kiki gives her space to chase the ball at her own pace.
—
Rachael O'Connor, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 Aug. 2025
Rachael O'Connor, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for hangs back
Verb
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The Broncos’ wide receivers had four drops in the first half, and BSU failed twice on fourth down when going for it, something Danielson seldom hesitates to do.—
Idaho Statesman,
Idaho Statesman,
29 Nov. 2025
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In the final scene, Lee hesitates for a moment before letting Stella choose.—
Hunter Ingram,
Variety,
22 Oct. 2025
Verb
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And when New York falters, the ripple effects are often national.—
MSNBC Newsweek,
MSNBC Newsweek,
31 Oct. 2025
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As time passes, pressure increases, communication falters, and every decision carries the weight of potential destruction.—
Allison DeGrushe,
Entertainment Weekly,
27 Oct. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Hangs back.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hangs%20back. Accessed 9 Jan. 2026.
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