back out from (something)
1. To withdraw from or renege on something, such as a given commitment, promise, plan, or situation. She was considered a strong contender to win the local election, but she backed out from the race at the last minute and continued working as CEO of her company. John was so nervous that he decided to back out from the marriage on the morning of his wedding. Come on, you can't back out from the charity auction now! Who will emcee if you don't?
2. To move backwards out of something or some place. Go slowly as you back out from the driveway. I backed out from the room when I realized Mom and Dad were in the middle of an argument. All of a sudden, the cat backed out from behind the hamper and nearly scared me half to death.
3. To cause, guide, or direct someone or something to move backwards out of something or some place. In this usage, a noun or pronoun is used between "back" and "out." Would you mind backing the car out from this parking spot for me? The police officer backed us out from the office before we could ask the senator any questions. Please be careful when you're backing the boat out from the trailer! I just had it painted, and I don't want to get any scratches on it.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.