step back

phrasal verb

stepped back; stepping back; steps back

: to stop doing something or being actively involved in something for a time so in order to think about it and make decisions in a calm and reasonable way

You need to step back and give yourself some time to work through this.

Examples of step back in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

With iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and the Pantheon, visitors step back in time to explore the heart of the ancient Roman Empire. —Joanne Shurvell, Forbes, 4 Mar. 2025

After several years of hosting the Academy Awards, Jimmy Kimmel stepped back this year, leaving the stage to Conan O’Brien. —Emily Zemler, Rolling Stone, 4 Mar. 2025

With a team made up entirely of former reserves, JV players, incoming freshmen and one transfer – albeit a star from Monte Vista in Rudd — a step back would have been understandable. —Joseph Dycus, The Mercury News, 3 Mar. 2025

Beck is hoping for a bounce-back season after taking a step back in 2024. —Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 3 Mar. 2025

Rhymes for step back

• aback
• anzac
• attack
• backpack
• backtrack
• bareback
• blackjack
• brownback
• buyback
• callback
• cognac
• comeback