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to back off
[phrase form: back]
01
to move away from a person, thing, or situation
Intransitive
Example
The cyclist decided to back off from the busy intersection to avoid a potential collision.
The firefighter was forced to back off when the flames intensified.
The crowd was asked to back off to give emergency responders room to work.
02
to no longer be involved in a task or obligation
Intransitive
Example
I had to back off when I realized the workload was too much.
Jerry backed off when he realized how much work was involved.
The company decided to back off from the risky venture.
03
to avoid telling someone what to do or criticizing them, allowing the person to handle the situation on their own
Intransitive
Example
Teachers should know when to back off and let students navigate challenges.
I need you to back off and trust that I can manage my workload.
I appreciate your input, but it 's time to back off and let me handle my job.
Example
The cyclist decided to back off from the busy intersection to avoid a potential collision.
The firefighter was forced to back off when the flames intensified.
The crowd was asked to back off to give emergency responders room to work.
The hiker encountered a bear and wisely chose to back off slowly.
The dog growled, warning everyone to back off.
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