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

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Essentially, the government delegated AI governance to existing regulators, issued guidelines and stepped back, hoping each regulator would manage effectively. —

Ozan Ozerk, Forbes, 2 Jan. 2025 In 2025, take a step back in conversations, especially with friends, family members, and in romantic relationships, and let the other person put in some effort. —

Angela Haupt, TIME, 31 Dec. 2024 Bruce Willis revealed in 2022 he had been diagnosed with aphasia and would be taking a step back from acting. —

Anna Kaufman, USA TODAY, 30 Dec. 2024 But a rotation that could take a step back next season, assuming Wrigley Field doesn’t play as extremely pitcher-friendly again, could use more help. —

Sahadev Sharma, The Athletic, 30 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for step back