draw back

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Explanation of "Draw Back"

Definition: The phrase "draw back" can mean to pull something away from a position or to move away from a situation. It can also be used more specifically in contexts like surgery, where it refers to holding open the edges of a wound or organ.

Usage Instructions:

• "Draw back" is a phrasal verb, which means it combines a verb ("draw") with a particle ("back").
• It is often used in both literal and figurative contexts.

Examples:

1. Literal Context:

   • "The doctor had to draw back the skin to see the wound properly."
   • Here, it means to pull the skin away from the wound.

2. Figurative Context:

   • "When I heard the loud noise, I instinctively drew back in surprise."
   • In this case, it means to move away from something suddenly.

Advanced Usage:

• In a more advanced context, "draw back" can be used to describe emotional or psychological withdrawal.
  • Example: "After the argument, she decided to draw back from the friendship for a while."
  • This means she chose to distance herself emotionally.

Word Variants:

• Drawback (noun): This is a related term that means a disadvantage or a negative aspect of something.
  • Example: "The main drawback of living in the city is the high cost of living."

Different Meanings:

• In addition to its use in surgery and physical withdrawal, "draw back" can also imply hesitation or reluctance to engage in something.
  • Example: "He tends to draw back from making commitments."

Synonyms:

• Withdraw
• Pull back
• Recoil
• Retreat

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• Draw back the curtain: To reveal something that was hidden.

  • Example: "She drew back the curtain to let in the sunlight."

• Draw back in horror: To physically or emotionally pull away because of fear or disgust.

  • Example: "He drew back in horror when he saw the snake."

Summary:

"Draw back" is a versatile phrase that can be used in various contexts, from physical actions to emotional responses. Understanding its different meanings and usages can help you communicate more effectively in English.

Academic

Verb

1. use a surgical instrument to hold open (the edges of a wound or an organ)
2. pull back or move away or backward
   • The enemy withdrew
   • The limo pulled away from the curb

Synonyms

• retract
• pull back
• withdraw
• retreat
• pull away
• recede
• retire
• move back