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took back

VERB

retract

Synonyms

STRONGEST

cancel reclaim renege repeal repossess rescind revoke withdraw

WEAK

abjure back down backpedal call off change one's mind eat one's words forget it go back on have change of heart recall recant repudiate

Antonyms

STRONGEST

allow approve permit

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.

That same year, Dorsey took back the job as CEO of Twitter, which was based a block away.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 3, 2026

Al-Shabaab took back at least 14 towns and districts in Hiiraan last year, and 28 more in neighbouring Middle Shebelle, according to a tally by an AFP journalist in Somalia.

From Barron's • Feb. 19, 2026

She was the first woman to be named speaker of the House in 2007, and then took back that role in 2019, making her the first person to do so in more than 60 years.

From MarketWatch • Nov. 6, 2025

When the Taliban took back control of Afghanistan, the Reynolds were among the few westerners who decided to stay.

From BBC • Mar. 29, 2025

The resulting punch which he took back to the Palace was always interesting and sometimes surprising.

From "Cannery Row" by John Steinbeck