back out of

back out (of 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 at the last minute and continued working as CEO of her company. John was so nervous that he decided to back out of the marriage on the morning of his wedding. Come on, you can't back out now! Who will emcee the charity auction?

2. To move out (of something or some place) in reverse. Go slowly as you back out of the driveway. I backed out of the room when I realized Mom and Dad were in the middle of an argument. We'll both lift one side of the table to get it out of the kitchen. You back out, and I'll direct you as I walk forward.

3. To cause, guide, or direct someone or something to move out (of something or some place) in reverse. In this usage, a noun or pronoun is used between "back" and "out." Would you mind backing the car out of this parking spot for me? The police officer backed us out of the office before we could ask the senator any questions. Please be careful when you're backing the boat out of the trailer! I just had it painted, and I don't want to get any scratches on it.

See also: back, out

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

back someone or something out of something

 and back someone or something out

to guide or move someone or something backwards out of something or some place. Judy backed the car out of the garage. Please back out the car. Don backed Fred out of the garage.

See also: back, of, out

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.