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bow out

B2 neutral intransitive
In simple words

To leave a job, competition, or situation politely and with dignity, often after a long time.

Literal meaning: To bow (make a formal bow gesture) while moving out — as a performer bows at the end of a show before leaving the stage.

Meanings

1 B2 idiomatic neutral

To withdraw from a competition, election, or commitment, usually gracefully and voluntarily.

"She decided to bow out of the competition after realizing she couldn't give it her full commitment."

2 B2 idiomatic neutral

To retire from a job, career, or position of responsibility, especially in a dignified way.

"After forty years in politics, the senator bowed out and announced he would not seek re-election."

Usage notes

Commonly used in politics, sports, business, and entertainment to describe a dignified exit or retirement. The tone is almost always respectful. Often followed by 'of' (bow out of something).

Commonly used with

gracefully election competition race career deal

Forms

Base
bow out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
bows out
he/she/it
Past simple
bowed out
yesterday
Past participle
bowed out
have + pp
-ing form
bowing out
continuous

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Synonyms

step down retire withdraw stand down pull out exit gracefully

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