Synonyms for

Retreating

Verb / ri:ˈtri:tɪŋ / Another word for retreating — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To withdraw or move back from a position or situation.

Synonyms & similar words

pullinoneshorns retire retreat crawfishout moveback recede withdraw retrograde pullback backout backaway advance pullaway drawback crawfish withdraw recede retire retract yield surrender abandon flee escape

Synonyms by register

Formal

withdrawing receding pulling back disengaging

Informal

backing off pulling out giving ground

Literary

fleeing evading falling back

Antonyms

advancing approaching attacking charging progressing forwarding

Common collocations

  • retreating army
  • retreating enemy
  • retreating tide
  • retreating slowly
  • forced to retreat
  • order a retreat
  • making a retreat

Word family

noun retreat
verb retreat
adjective retreating

Usage note

Primarily used to describe a military withdrawal or a physical movement away from a place or situation. Can also refer to a decline or recession, such as a retreating economy.

Example sentences

  1. The army was retreating from the enemy's attack.
  2. The turtle was retreating into its shell.
  3. She was retreating from the argument to avoid a fight.
  4. The stock prices were retreating after a sudden rise.
  5. The company was retreating from the market due to losses.

Quotes

  • Retreating is not losing ground; it's simply backing up to give yourself a running start.
  • Retreating doesn't mean you're giving up, it means you're choosing to take a different path.
  • Retreating is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of intelligence.

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