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
Clearview co-founder Hoan Ton-That stepped back as CEO in December and took on the role of president.
—
David Jeans, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2025
The couple stepped back from their royal duties in 2020 and moved to Santa Barbara, Calif., where Lili was born the following year.
—Julie Tremaine, People.com, 19 Feb. 2025
The woman stepped back to show the elegant gown, complete with a dramatic bow detail that left viewers in awe.
—Matt Robison, Newsweek, 18 Feb. 2025
Rather than join in the laughter, Stewart stepped back and thought about the moment.
—Hunter Patterson, The Athletic, 17 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for step back
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David Jeans, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2025
The couple stepped back from their royal duties in 2020 and moved to Santa Barbara, Calif., where Lili was born the following year.
—Julie Tremaine, People.com, 19 Feb. 2025
The woman stepped back to show the elegant gown, complete with a dramatic bow detail that left viewers in awe.
—Matt Robison, Newsweek, 18 Feb. 2025
Rather than join in the laughter, Stewart stepped back and thought about the moment.
—Hunter Patterson, The Athletic, 17 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for step back
Cite this Entry
“Step back.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/step%20back. Accessed 27 Feb. 2025.
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