1 A2 neutral
To move physically backwards away from someone or something, especially out of fear or caution.
"She slowly backed away from the aggressive dog, trying not to make any sudden movements."
inseparable
back away
B1 neutral inseparable intransitive
To move backwards away from someone or something, or to withdraw from a position or commitment.
In plain English
To move yourself away from something slowly, like going backwards to get away from danger.
What does "back away" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 idiomatic neutral
To withdraw from a commitment, position, or plan, especially under pressure.
"The government backed away from its earlier promise to cut taxes within the first year."
“
He seemed to back away from that position.
— Common journalistic phrasing in political reporting, widely attested
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To step or move backwards, away from something.
Actually means
To move yourself away from something slowly, like going backwards to get away from danger.
Usage tip
Used both literally (physical movement) and figuratively (withdrawing from a plan, statement, or position). The preposition 'from' often follows: 'back away from'. Very common in both spoken and written English.
Words that pair with "back away"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
threat danger commitment deal position claim
How to conjugate "back away"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
back away
I/you/we/they
3rd person
backs away
he/she/it
Past simple
backed away
yesterday
Past participle
backed away
have + pp
-ing form
backing away
continuous
Hear "back away" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "back away" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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