The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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retract

verb

/rɪˈtrakt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of retract

To withdraw, take back, or revoke a statement, assertion, promise, or offer that was previously made.
"He was forced to retract his statement after it was proven to be false."

Detailed meaning of retract

When someone retracts something, they essentially nullify or cancel what they had previously said or communicated, often acknowledging that the earlier statement was incorrect, inaccurate, or no longer valid. Retracting is typically done to correct an error, clarify a misunderstanding, or disavow a previous position. For example, a public figure might retract a controversial statement made during a speech, or a company may retract a product recall notice if new information shows that the product is safe. In essence, "retract" is the act of officially and formally undoing a statement or action that was previously communicated or taken.

Example sentences containing retract

1. You need to retract your statement immediately.
2. They will not retract their offer without good reason.
3. I may retract my invitation if circumstances change.
4. She chose to retract her admission after considering the consequences.
5. Can we retract the proposal before the meeting tomorrow?
6. He refused to retract his damaging remarks.

History and etymology of retract

The verb 'retract' has its origins in Latin, stemming from the Latin word 'retractare,' which is a combination of 're-' meaning 'back' or 'again,' and 'tractare,' meaning 'to handle' or 'to treat.' Therefore, etymologically, 'retract' can be understood as 'to handle again' or 'to take back.' This aligns perfectly with its modern usage, where it means to withdraw, take back, or revoke a statement, assertion, promise, or offer that was previously made. The word's etymology emphasizes the action of revisiting or reconsidering something and reversing a prior stance or declaration.

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Further usage examples of retract

1. You must retract your claim if you cannot provide substantial evidence.
2. We cannot simply retract our decision because of a single mistake.
3. I hope you retract your accusations once you learn the truth.
4. Should I retract the offer I made last week?
5. You're too late to retract your bid in the auction.
6. He wants to retract his initial assessment of the situation.
7. If they retract their sponsorship, the event may not proceed.
8. We have every right to retract our support for the project.
9. If we retract the application now, we might lose our chance.
10. They are under pressure to retract the false advertisement.
11. Let's retract our reservations about this deal and go all in.
12. Can she retract her pledge at this stage in the campaign?
13. Why would they retract their endorsement so suddenly?
14. You cannot retract your words once they are spoken out loud.