back off — 2 meanings

One phrase, 2 meanings. Learn them one at a time, then test yourself.

phrasal verb2 meanings

back off

Meaning 1 · most common

To stop interfering with or putting pressure on someone.

Example

A: You need to decide right now.
B: Back off. I need time to think.

Tell it apart

Meaning 2

If you back off, you move away from someone or something because you want more space or feel threatened.

Example

A: Why did you step away?
B: The dog growled, so I backed off.

Tell it apart

Turn this into speaking practice

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