row back
B2 neutral inseparable intransitive
In simple words
To take back or soften something you said or promised, or to row a boat backwards.
Literal meaning: To propel a boat backwards using oars — the figurative sense derives from reversing direction.
Meanings
1 A2 neutral
Literal: to propel a boat backwards by rowing.
"He rowed back to the dock when he noticed the weather was turning."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B2
idiomatic
neutral
Figurative: to retreat from or soften a previously stated position, promise, or commitment.
"The minister appeared to row back on his earlier promise to cut taxes."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
The figurative sense — retreating from a political or public statement — is very common in British journalism and political commentary. Often used with 'from'. The literal sense of rowing a boat backwards is straightforward and transparent.
Commonly used with
statement promise commitment policy position claim
Forms
Base
row back
I/you/we/they
3rd person
rows back
he/she/it
Past simple
rowed back
yesterday
Past participle
rowed back
have + pp
-ing form
rowing back
continuous
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