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
She knows when to hang back and when to attack.
From Washington Times • Jun. 9, 2023
“It may make sense for females to hang back with calves that are vulnerable,” said lead author Jennifer Tennessen, a senior research scientist at the University of Washington’s Center for Ecosystem Sentinels.
From Seattle Times • Mar. 13, 2023
There was the shifty rustling of unreadiness but finally a boy of fourteen led us off and I dared not hang back, as much as I hated the idea of seeing Mrs. Taylor.
From "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" by Maya Angelou
