backing out
/ˈbækɪŋ aʊt/
VERB
1. To withdraw from a commitment or agreement
To decide not to do something that one has previously agreed, promised, or intended to do.
1.1. Withdrawing from an agreement or obligation
Describes abandoning a commitment, agreement, promise, or planned activity before fulfilling it.
Synonyms
- withdrawing
- pulling out
- backing away
- bowing out
- begging off
- crying off
- reneging
- backing off
Antonyms
- fulfilling
- honoring
- keeping
- following through
- carrying out
Examples
- The hesitant participant considered backing out of the commitment at the last moment.
- The company backed out of the agreement after discovering unexpected costs.
- Several investors started backing out of the deal because of financial uncertainty.
- She was worried about backing out of the event after accepting the invitation.
Related Words
- commitment
- obligation
- agreement
- promise
- withdrawal
- cancellation
- reservation
1.2. Abandoning a decision or previously stated position
Describes retracting, disavowing, or changing an opinion, claim, promise, or position that someone previously expressed or defended.
Synonyms
- backtracking
- backpedaling
- retracting
- recanting
- disavowing
- renouncing
- forswearing
- taking back
- going back on
Antonyms
- maintaining
- upholding
- affirming
- reaffirming
- standing by
Examples
- The politician started backing out of his earlier position after facing public criticism.
- The spokesperson backed out of the original claim when new evidence emerged.
- He refused to back out of his accusation despite mounting pressure.
- The organization began backing out of its previous commitment to the policy.
Related Words
- retraction
- repudiation
- reversal
- change of mind
- second thoughts
- disavowal
1.3. Withdrawing from an activity because of fear or hesitation
Describes deciding not to participate in an activity, challenge, or undertaking because of nervousness, apprehension, uncertainty, or lack of courage.
Synonyms
- copping out
- wimping out
- finking out
- begging off
- crying off
- withdrawing
- bowing out
Antonyms
- persevering
- proceeding
- participating
- pressing on
- following through
Examples
- The singer felt nervous before the performance but decided against backing out.
- The competitor considered backing out of the race because of injury concerns.
- He was tempted to back out of the public speaking engagement at the last minute.
- Despite her anxiety, she refused to back out of the competition.
Related Words
- anxiety
- apprehension
- fear
- timidity
- second thoughts
- reservations
- hesitation