step back
phrasal verb
stepped back; stepping back; steps back
: to stop doing something or being actively involved in something for a time so in order to think about it and make decisions in a calm and reasonable way
You need to step back and give yourself some time to work through this.
Examples of step back in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped back as senior royals in 2020, citing the unbearable intrusions of the British media and lack of support from the palace.
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Janelle Ash , Ashley Papa , Stephanie Nolasco, FOXNews.com, 3 May 2025
This season was a step back, but perhaps that should have been expected given his level of production most of his career.
—Peter Baugh, New York Times, 2 May 2025
This month’s first quarter moon is encouraging you to take a step back to reflect and recharge.
—Valerie Mesa, People.com, 2 May 2025
The decision to step back from the bench represents the end to a Hall of Fame career on the sidelines for Popovich, long known as one of the premier coaches in the NBA and across the basketball world.
—Jill Martin, CNN Money, 2 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for step back
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Janelle Ash , Ashley Papa , Stephanie Nolasco, FOXNews.com, 3 May 2025
This season was a step back, but perhaps that should have been expected given his level of production most of his career.
—Peter Baugh, New York Times, 2 May 2025
This month’s first quarter moon is encouraging you to take a step back to reflect and recharge.
—Valerie Mesa, People.com, 2 May 2025
The decision to step back from the bench represents the end to a Hall of Fame career on the sidelines for Popovich, long known as one of the premier coaches in the NBA and across the basketball world.
—Jill Martin, CNN Money, 2 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for step back
Cite this Entry
“Step back.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/step%20back. Accessed 6 May. 2025.
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