Thesaurus results for RETREAT

Q: How does the verb 'retreat' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of retreat are back , recede , and retract . While all these words mean "to move backward," retreat implies withdrawal from a point or position reached. // retreating soldiers

Q: When is 'back' a more appropriate choice than 'retreat'?

The words back and retreat are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, back is used with up, down, out , or off to refer to any retrograde motion. // backed off on the throttle

Q: When would 'recede' be a good substitute for 'retreat'?

While the synonyms recede and retreat are close in meaning, recede implies a gradual withdrawing from a forward or high fixed point in time or space. // the flood waters gradually receded

Q: When could 'retract' be used to replace 'retreat'?

The words retract and retreat can be used in similar contexts, but retract implies drawing back from an extended position. // a cat retracting its claws

retreat 1 of 2

noun

Definition of retreat next

as in withdrawal

an act of moving away especially from something difficult, dangerous, or disagreeable we made a strategic retreat when we realized that we were outnumbered

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in refuge

something (as a building) that offers cover from the weather or protection from danger her bedroom served as a retreat from the frequent arguing between her parents the abandoned cabin was a welcome retreat from the storm

Synonyms & Similar Words

retreat

2 of 2

verb

as in to withdraw

to move back or away (as from something difficult, dangerous, or disagreeable) we retreated to the safety of the cellar at the first sign of the tornado

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to flee

to hasten away from something dangerous or frightening the untried soldiers retreated in humiliating disarray almost as soon as the enemy's onslaught began

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb retreat contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of retreat are back, recede, and retract. While all these words mean "to move backward," retreat implies withdrawal from a point or position reached.

retreating soldiers

When is back a more appropriate choice than retreat?

The words back and retreat are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, back is used with up, down, out, or off to refer to any retrograde motion.

backed off on the throttle

When would recede be a good substitute for retreat?

While the synonyms recede and retreat are close in meaning, recede implies a gradual withdrawing from a forward or high fixed point in time or space.

the flood waters gradually receded

When could retract be used to replace retreat?

The words retract and retreat can be used in similar contexts, but retract implies drawing back from an extended position.

a cat retracting its claws