Hang back

usgb
verb

To stay back or be reluctant to move forward or take action.

She always hangs back at parties because she's shy.
Visual representation of "hang back" - To stay back or be reluctant to move forward or take action.

Often appears as...

  • hang back from
  • hang back in
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "hang back"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Social Anxiety

Used when someone avoids attention due to shyness or discomfort in social situations.

Illustration for Social Anxiety
At networking events, he tends to hang back and observe rather than interact.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Indecision Connotation

Implies uncertainty or indecision, often due to lack of confidence or information.

Illustration for Indecision Connotation
I'll hang back until I have all the details about the plan.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Observation Strategy

Can be a deliberate strategy to observe events before participating.

Illustration for Observation Strategy
Let's hang back and watch how they negotiate before we join in.
Visual representation of the word "Hang back"

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