step back

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The couple left the UK for North America in 2020 after stepping back from royal life, and the years since have seen a public falling out with the wider royal family. — Lauren Said-Moorhouse, CNN Money, 26 Aug. 2026 With the Buckeyes having to replace impact defenders including Downs, Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles, Matt Patricia’s squad will understandably take a step back in 2026. — Dane Brugler, New York Times, 26 Aug. 2026 The United States might consider stepping back, forcing Iran’s leadership to focus more on governing and less on surviving a war. — Nate Swanson, Foreign Affairs, 25 Aug. 2026 After witnessing an absolutely historic coaching carousel in 2025 that saw job openings at perennial powerhouse programs like LSU, Florida, and Penn State, the expectation is that this year's carousel will take a step back. — Austin Perry Outkick, FOXNews.com, 25 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for step back

Rhymes for step back

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Browse Nearby Words

step aside
step back
step backward/forward
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Step back.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/step%20back. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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