draw back

To move your body backward, often because something frightens or surprises you.

• She drew back in surprise.
• He drew back when the dog showed its teeth.
• Why did you draw back as I reached toward you?

How to use it: draw back from someone/something (She drew back from the hot stove.)

Similar words: move back, recoil, shrink back

Common phrases: draw back suddenly, draw back from something, draw back in fear

To pull something backward or to the side, often to open it or uncover something.

• Draw back the curtains, please.
• He drew his hand back from the fire.
• The archer drew back the bow and aimed at the target.

How to use it: draw something back (She drew the curtains back to let in the sunlight.)

Similar words: pull back

Common phrases: draw back something, draw back curtains, draw back a bow

To leave a position and move away from an enemy or danger.

• The soldiers drew back.
• The army drew back to a safer position.
• As the enemy advanced, our forces began to draw back.

How to use it: draw back from something (The troops drew back from their exposed position.)

Similar words: retreat, fall back, pull back

Opposites: advance

Common phrases: draw back troops, draw back from something, draw back slowly

To decide not to continue with a plan, activity, or agreement.

• They drew back from the deal.
• She drew back from investing when she saw the risks.
• Several supporters have drawn back from the project.

How to use it: draw back from something/doing something (They drew back from signing the agreement.)

Similar words: withdraw, back out, pull out

Common phrases: draw back from something, draw back from negotiations