back away
/ˈbæk əˈweɪ/
VERB
1. To move backward or retreat
To move in a direction opposite to the one you are facing, while keeping your attention on the person or thing you are moving away from.
1.1. Physical retreat from something
Describes gradually moving backward to increase distance from a person, animal, object, or situation that may be threatening, dangerous, or uncomfortable.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- As the aggressive dog approached, I slowly began to back away.
- I had to back away from the edge of the cliff because it was too steep.
- The intense heat forced us to back away from the blazing fire.
- When confronted with the angry crowd, the politician decided to back away from the podium.
- It's wise to back away from situations that make you uncomfortable.