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

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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.
Grande’s Eternal Sunshine album tour wrapped Tuesday after the performer announced plans to step back from public appearances. — Joey Nolfi, Entertainment Weekly, 2 Sep. 2026 On top of that, when breakthrough tools like artificial intelligence arrive, enterprises rush to automate existing routines without stepping back to evaluate whether those routines were worth preserving. — Natalie Grabher, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2026 Schofield explained that the concern over competing headlines echoes the central issue Queen Elizabeth II confronted when Harry and Markle stepped back from their roles as working royals in 2020. — Ashley Hume , Stephanie Nolasco, FOXNews.com, 1 Sep. 2026 And then, in August 2025, Dolly had to take a step back after her initial health challenges. — Chris Willman, Variety, 31 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
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Cite this Entry

“Step back.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/step%20back. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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