hang back

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The Familiar will know whether to run up or to hang back.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 4, 2026

Whether donning a tracksuit to join a fun-run along Windhoek's Independence Avenue, or insisting his driver hang back from official motorcades, he aimed to be a man of the people.

From BBC • Feb. 8, 2025

“Now, the first time there’s a real challenge we actually see, security forces are willing to hang back and wait and see what happens,” he told AP.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 6, 2023

She knows when to hang back and when to attack.

From Washington Times • Jun. 9, 2023

Or has Peeta's behavior made them all hang back?

From "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins