backs down
/bæks daʊn/
VERB
1. To withdraw from a position, claim, or commitment
To retreat from a previously stated position, opinion, promise, or commitment, especially when facing opposition, criticism, or pressure.
1.1. Abandoning a previously held position
Changing or abandoning an opinion, decision, or position that someone previously supported, often because of disagreement or pressure.
Synonyms
- backpedals
- backtracks
- backs off
- abjures
- abnegates
- withdraws
- renounces
- relinquishes
Examples
- Despite initial resistance, he eventually backs down when faced with overwhelming evidence.
- A good leader listens to others but never backs down from their principles.
- In negotiations, neither side wants to be the one that backs down first.
- She is known for her strong convictions and rarely backs down from a challenge.
Related Words
1.2. Retracting a statement or claim
Taking back, denying, or publicly withdrawing something previously said, asserted, or claimed, particularly after it has been challenged.
Synonyms
- recants
- retracts
- disavows
- repudiates
- recalls
- takes back
- unsays
- forswears
- foreswears
Related Words
- denies
- disowns
- renounces
- revokes
- disclaims
- contradicts
1.3. Withdrawing from a promise or agreement
Failing to follow through on a previous promise, agreement, or commitment by withdrawing from or abandoning what was originally agreed.
Synonyms
- backs out
- reneges
- begs off
- cries off
- cops out
- finks out
- wimps out
- goes back on
Antonyms
Examples
- The team refuses to backs down from their commitment to excellence, even in the face of adversity.