Draw back
verb
To move backwards away from something or someone, usually because you are afraid.
The dog barked and the postman drew back in fear.
Often appears as...
- draw back in fear
- draw back from the edge
verb
To decide not to do something you were planning to do.
She was going to invest in his company, but she drew back when she heard about the financial problems.
Often appears as...
- draw back from investing
- draw back on plans
noun
A disadvantage or the negative part of a situation.
One of the main drawbacks of living in the city is the lack of green spaces.
Often appears as...
- major drawback
- main drawback
Usage tips
Disapproving
verb
To pull or gather something together.
Draw back the curtains and let the morning light in
Often appears as...
- draw back the curtains
- draw back the sheets
verb
To move backwards away from something or someone, usually because you are afraid.
The dog barked and the postman drew back in fear.
Often appears as...
- draw back in fear
- draw back from the edge
verb
To decide not to do something you were planning to do.
She was going to invest in his company, but she drew back when she heard about the financial problems.
Often appears as...
- draw back from investing
- draw back on plans
noun
A disadvantage or the negative part of a situation.
One of the main drawbacks of living in the city is the lack of green spaces.
Often appears as...
- major drawback
- main drawback
Usage tips
Disapproving
verb
To pull or gather something together.
Draw back the curtains and let the morning light in
Often appears as...
- draw back the curtains
- draw back the sheets
Definition 1 of 4
Pro Tip 1/2Fear Reaction
Use 'draw back' to describe an immediate physical reaction to something frightening or unpleasant.
When he saw the snake, he drew back instinctively.
Pro Tip 2/2Sudden Movements
'Draw back' often implies a sudden or quick movement away from something.
She drew back as the car sped towards the puddle.
Pro Tip 1/2Fear Reaction
Use 'draw back' to describe an immediate physical reaction to something frightening or unpleasant.
When he saw the snake, he drew back instinctively.
Pro Tip 2/2Sudden Movements
'Draw back' often implies a sudden or quick movement away from something.
She drew back as the car sped towards the puddle.
Pro Tip 1/2Fear Reaction
Use 'draw back' to describe an immediate physical reaction to something frightening or unpleasant.
When he saw the snake, he drew back instinctively.
Pro Tip 2/2Sudden Movements
'Draw back' often implies a sudden or quick movement away from something.
She drew back as the car sped towards the puddle.
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