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Phrasal verbs "step back" vs "step down"

Differences between step back and step down

Step back means to move away from something or to take a break from a situation, while step down means to resign or give up a position of authority.

Meanings and Definitions: step back vs step down

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Step back

  • 1Look at something from a different perspective.

    We should STEP BACK and try to see how our customers will view the scheme.

Step down

  • 1Leave a job or position so that someone can take over.

    The CEO STEPPED DOWN after the share price dropped.

  • 2Reduce.

    Production is being STEPPED DOWN because demand has dropped.

Usage Examples: step back, step down in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

step back

Example

Sometimes, it's important to step back and evaluate the situation.

Example

She steps back to get a better view of the painting.

step down

Example

The manager decided to step down after many years of service.

Example

She steps down as the president of the company next month.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Step back

take a breather

To take a short break from a task or activity to relax or recharge.

Example

After working for hours, she decided to take a breather and go for a walk outside.

back off

To move away from someone or something, especially when feeling threatened or overwhelmed.

Example

He told his boss to back off and give him some space to finish the project.

reassess the situation

To evaluate or analyze a situation again to make sure that one's actions or decisions are appropriate.

Example

After the unexpected turn of events, they decided to reassess the situation and come up with a new plan.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Step down

resign from a position

To formally announce that one is leaving a job or position of authority.

Example

After the scandal, the CEO decided to resign from his position and take responsibility for the company's actions.

give up the reins

To relinquish control or power over a situation or organization.

Example

After leading the company for decades, he decided to give up the reins and retire.

step aside

To voluntarily leave a position or role to allow someone else to take over.

Example

After serving as the team captain for years, she decided to step aside and let a younger player take on the role.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Differences in step back vs step down: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: step back or step down?

In everyday conversation, step back is more common than step down. This is because step back can be used in various situations, such as taking a break from work or distancing oneself from a problem. On the other hand, step down is used less frequently and usually in specific contexts, such as politics or business.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of step back and step down

Step down is a more formal phrase than step back. It's often used in professional settings when someone resigns from a position of authority. Step back, on the other hand, is an informal phrase that can be used in both casual and formal settings.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of step back and step down

The tone of step back and step down can differ based on context. Step back often carries a neutral or positive tone when related to taking a break or reevaluating a situation, while step down typically has a negative or serious tone, especially when referring to resigning from a position of authority.

step back & step down: Synonyms and Antonyms

Step back

Antonyms

  • rush in
  • charge ahead
  • plunge in
  • forge ahead
  • press on
  • push forward

Step down

Antonyms

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