Top 42 Slang For Retraction – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to communication mishaps, we’ve all been there. Whether it’s a slip of the tongue or a misinformed statement, retractions are sometimes necessary. Curious about the slang terms people use for retracting statements? Look no further! Our team has compiled a list of the most popular and intriguing slang for retractions that you won’t want to miss. Stay tuned to brush up on your language skills and stay in the loop with the latest trends in communication.

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1. Take back

To retract or withdraw a statement or claim that was previously made. This phrase is often used to admit that the original statement was incorrect or misguided.

For example, “I take back what I said earlier, I was wrong about her intentions.”
In a discussion, someone might say, “I take back my previous comment, I didn’t have all the facts.”
A politician might issue a statement saying, “I take back my previous statement and apologize for any confusion it may have caused.”

2. Withdraw

To retract or rescind a previous statement, action, or claim. This term implies a conscious decision to remove or revoke something that was previously stated or done.

For instance, “I withdraw my previous accusation, it was unfounded.”
In a legal context, a lawyer might say, “I advise my client to withdraw their previous statement.”
A person might decide to withdraw their support for a controversial idea and say, “I withdraw my previous endorsement, I’ve changed my mind.”

3. Backpedal

To reverse or retreat from a previous position or statement. This term suggests a sense of hesitation or a desire to distance oneself from a previous stance.

For example, “He tried to backpedal on his controversial remarks after facing backlash.”
In a debate, someone might accuse their opponent of backpedaling and say, “You can’t just backpedal on your previous argument.”
A politician might be accused of backpedaling on a campaign promise and hear, “You’re backpedaling on your previous commitment to lower taxes.”

4. Recant

To publicly withdraw or deny a previous statement or belief. This term is often used in a formal or legal context, implying a need for an official retraction.

For instance, “He was forced to recant his earlier testimony in court.”
In a religious setting, someone might recant their previous beliefs and say, “I recant my previous faith and embrace a new spiritual path.”
A journalist might be asked to recant a false report and publish a retraction statement.

5. Renounce

To formally reject or disown a previous statement, belief, or affiliation. This term implies a strong and definitive repudiation of the original position.

For example, “He renounced his previous support for the political party and joined a different one.”
In a personal context, someone might renounce their previous lifestyle choices and say, “I renounce my previous unhealthy habits and commit to a healthier lifestyle.”
A celebrity might renounce a controversial statement and issue a public apology.

6. Revoke

To revoke means to cancel or annul something that has been previously granted or allowed. It is often used in a legal or official context.

For example, “The judge decided to revoke the defendant’s bail.”
In a discussion about licenses, someone might say, “If you violate the terms, they can revoke your driver’s license.”
A person talking about a decision might say, “I had to revoke my earlier statement because new evidence came to light.”

7. Retract

To retract means to take back or withdraw something that has been previously stated or published. It is often used in the context of correcting a mistake or clarifying a false statement.

For instance, “The newspaper had to retract their earlier article due to inaccuracies.”
In a conversation, someone might say, “I need to retract what I said earlier. I was misinformed.”
A person might post on social media, “I retract my previous statement. I apologize for any confusion caused.”

8. Rescind

To rescind means to revoke or cancel something that has been previously agreed upon or put into effect. It is often used in a formal or official context.

For example, “The company decided to rescind their offer of employment.”
In a discussion about policies, someone might say, “They should rescind that rule. It’s not fair.”
A person talking about a contract might say, “If one party breaches the agreement, the other can rescind it.”

9. Take it back

To take it back means to retract or withdraw a statement that has been made. It is a colloquial phrase often used in casual conversations.

For instance, “I take it back. I didn’t mean what I said.”
In a discussion, someone might say, “I need to take back what I said earlier. I was wrong.”
A person apologizing might say, “I take back my previous comment. It was insensitive.”

10. Apologize

To apologize means to express regret or say sorry for a mistake, offense, or wrongdoing. While it is not specifically a slang term for retraction, apologizing can be a way to retract or amend a previous statement.

For example, “I apologize for my earlier comment. It was inappropriate.”
In a conversation, someone might say, “I want to apologize for what I said. It was thoughtless.”
A person might write a formal apology letter, saying, “I deeply apologize for any harm caused by my previous statement.”

11. Undo

This term refers to retracting or reversing a previous statement or action. It implies the desire to go back in time and erase what was said or done.

For example, if someone says something offensive, they might say, “I wish I could undo that comment.”
In a discussion about a decision, someone might say, “Let’s undo our previous choice and consider other options.”
A person might admit, “I made a mistake, and I wish I could undo it.”

12. Reconsider

To reconsider means to think again or review a previous decision or belief. It implies a willingness to reassess one’s position or perspective.

For instance, if someone opposes a certain policy, they might say, “I need to reconsider my stance on this issue.”
In a debate, a person might say, “I will reconsider my argument based on the new evidence.”
A person might reflect, “After some thought, I’ve decided to reconsider my career options.”

13. Disavow

Disavow means to reject or deny any association or responsibility for a previous statement or action. It implies a desire to distance oneself from something that was said or done.

For example, if a politician makes a controversial statement, they might disavow it by saying, “I disavow those comments and apologize.”
In a discussion about a group’s actions, someone might say, “I disavow any involvement in those activities.”
A person might state, “I disavow any affiliation with that organization.”

14. Backtrack

To backtrack means to retract or reverse a previous statement or action. It implies going back on one’s words or decisions.

For instance, if someone realizes they were mistaken, they might say, “I need to backtrack on what I said earlier.”
In a negotiation, a person might say, “Let’s backtrack and reconsider our positions.”
A person might admit, “I made a wrong turn, and now I need to backtrack to find the right path.”

15. Admit fault

To admit fault means to accept responsibility for a mistake or wrongdoing. It implies acknowledging one’s role in the situation and expressing remorse.

For example, if someone causes an accident, they might say, “I admit fault and will cover the damages.”
In a discussion about a failed project, someone might say, “I admit fault for not properly managing the team.”
A person might reflect, “I admit fault for not taking better care of my health.”

16. Pull back

To pull back means to withdraw or retract a previous statement or action. It is often used when someone realizes they made a mistake or spoke too soon.

For example, “I need to pull back my previous statement, as I now have more information.”
In a discussion, someone might say, “Let’s pull back for a moment and reconsider our options.”
A journalist might write, “After receiving new evidence, the politician decided to pull back his controversial statement.”

17. Take a step back

To take a step back means to reconsider or reassess a situation. It is often used when someone realizes they need to pause and reflect before moving forward.

For instance, “I need to take a step back and think about this before making a decision.”
In a heated argument, someone might say, “Let’s take a step back and try to see things from each other’s perspective.”
A manager might advise, “When faced with a difficult problem, it’s important to take a step back and look at the bigger picture.”

18. Change one’s tune

To change one’s tune means to reverse or alter one’s opinion or stance. It is often used when someone realizes they were wrong or need to adjust their viewpoint.

For example, “He used to be against the idea, but now he’s changed his tune.”
In a debate, someone might say, “It seems like you’ve changed your tune on this issue.”
A politician might accuse their opponent of changing their tune, saying, “You were against it before, but now you’re suddenly in favor?”

19. Take a mulligan

To take a mulligan means to get a second chance or do something over. It is often used when someone wants to retract a mistake and start fresh.

For instance, “I made a mistake, can I take a mulligan and try again?”
In a game of golf, a player might say, “I’m going to take a mulligan on that last shot.”
A person reflecting on their past might say, “If I could take a mulligan on my career choices, I would do things differently.”

20. Eat crow

To eat crow means to admit one’s mistake or defeat. It is often used when someone realizes they were wrong and must face the consequences.

For example, “I was wrong about the outcome. I have to eat crow now.”
In a debate, someone might say, “Looks like you’ll have to eat crow after that incorrect statement.”
A sports commentator might say, “The team talked big before the game, but now they have to eat crow after such a devastating loss.”

21. Walk back

To retract or backtrack on a previous statement or position. This phrase is often used when someone wants to correct or clarify something they said earlier.

For example, a politician might walk back a controversial statement by saying, “Upon further reflection, I want to walk back my previous comments.”
In a heated argument, one person might say something hurtful and later apologize by saying, “I didn’t mean that, let me walk it back.”
A journalist might write an article and later realize there was an error in their reporting, so they would walk back the incorrect information.

22. Step back

To take a moment to reconsider or reassess a situation or decision. This phrase is often used when someone wants to pause and reflect before moving forward.

For instance, in a negotiation, one party might say, “Let’s step back and think about this before making a decision.”
In a relationship, a person might step back to evaluate their feelings and determine if they want to continue.
In a high-pressure situation, someone might need to step back to gain a fresh perspective and make a more informed choice.

23. Take a rain check

To politely decline an invitation or offer, but express the desire to accept it at a later time. This phrase is often used when someone wants to postpone or reschedule an event.

For example, if a friend invites you to go out for dinner but you can’t make it, you might say, “I can’t make it tonight, but can I take a rain check?”
If someone invites you to a party but you have a conflicting commitment, you could say, “I wish I could come, but I’ll have to take a rain check.”
In a professional setting, if a colleague invites you to a meeting but you’re already booked, you might respond, “I’ll have to take a rain check on that meeting, but let’s find another time.”

24. Take it all back

To retract or withdraw a previous statement or claim. This phrase is often used when someone realizes they were wrong or misinformed.

For instance, if someone accuses another person of something and later discovers they were mistaken, they might say, “I apologize, I take it all back.”
In a debate or argument, if someone makes a false claim and is proven wrong, they might say, “I was mistaken, I take it all back.”
In a personal conversation, if someone says something hurtful and later regrets it, they might apologize by saying, “I didn’t mean it, I take it all back.”

25. Renig

To go back on or fail to fulfill a promise or commitment. This term is often used when someone breaks a verbal or written agreement.

For example, if someone promises to help a friend move but cancels at the last minute, they might be accused of reneging on their commitment.
In a business deal, if one party fails to deliver on their agreed-upon terms, they could be accused of reneging on the agreement.
In a game or competition, if a player doesn’t follow the rules or breaks an agreement, they might be called out for reneging.

26. Back out

This phrase is often used to describe someone who decides not to follow through with something they previously agreed to or committed to.

For example, “He promised to help me move, but he backed out at the last minute.”
In a business context, someone might say, “We were going to sign the contract, but they backed out of the deal.”
A person might use this phrase to describe their own actions, saying, “I’m sorry, but I have to back out of our plans for tonight.”

27. Recede

This word is commonly used to describe something moving or retreating away from a previous position or state.

For instance, “The floodwaters began to recede after days of heavy rain.”
In a discussion about hair loss, someone might say, “His hairline has started to recede.”
A person might use this word to describe their own emotions, saying, “My anger is starting to recede now that I’ve had time to think.”

28. Retire

In slang, this word is often used to describe someone leaving a job or ceasing to participate in a certain activity.

For example, “After years of working, he finally decided to retire.”
In a sports context, someone might say, “The star player announced that he will retire at the end of the season.”
A person might use this word to describe their own plans, saying, “I’m going to retire from playing video games and focus on other hobbies.”

29. Reel in

This phrase is commonly used to describe the action of pulling or bringing something back in, often in a metaphorical sense.

For instance, “He managed to reel in a big fish during his fishing trip.”
In a discussion about sales, someone might say, “The new marketing campaign really helped us reel in some new customers.”
A person might use this phrase to describe their own actions, saying, “I need to reel in my spending and start saving more money.”

30. Take a backseat

This phrase is often used to describe someone stepping back and allowing others to take the lead or be more active.

For example, “He decided to take a backseat and let someone else handle the project.”
In a discussion about parenting, someone might say, “It’s important for parents to take a backseat sometimes and let their children make their own decisions.”
A person might use this phrase to describe their own actions, saying, “I’m going to take a backseat and let someone else organize the event.”

31. Pull the plug

This phrase is often used to describe stopping or terminating an activity or project suddenly and without warning.

For example, “They decided to pull the plug on the concert due to bad weather.”
In a business context, someone might say, “We need to pull the plug on this marketing campaign, it’s not producing the desired results.”
Another usage could be, “After a series of disappointing performances, the coach finally decided to pull the plug on the player’s contract.”

32. Call off

This phrase is used to describe the act of canceling or postponing a planned event or action.

For instance, “They had to call off the wedding due to unforeseen circumstances.”
In a sports context, someone might say, “The game was called off due to heavy rain.”
Another example could be, “The company decided to call off the merger after facing regulatory challenges.”

33. Back down

This phrase is used to describe the act of yielding or surrendering in a position or argument.

For example, “He initially refused to apologize, but eventually had to back down.”
In a political context, someone might say, “The senator was forced to back down from his controversial stance.”
Another usage could be, “After a heated debate, she decided to back down and compromise.”

34. Eat one’s words

This phrase is used to describe the act of acknowledging that one’s previous statement or position was incorrect.

For instance, “After seeing the evidence, he had to eat his words and admit he was mistaken.”
In a personal context, someone might say, “I thought I could finish the race, but I had to eat my words when I couldn’t.”
Another example could be, “The journalist had to eat her words after her article was proven to be false.”

35. Bite one’s tongue

This phrase is used to describe the act of restraining oneself from speaking or expressing an opinion, especially when it may cause conflict or controversy.

For example, “I had to bite my tongue during the meeting to avoid an argument.”
In a family gathering, someone might say, “Sometimes it’s better to bite your tongue and avoid unnecessary drama.”
Another usage could be, “She wanted to voice her disagreement, but decided to bite her tongue to maintain peace.”

36. Retracto

Retracto is a slang term used to describe the act of retracting or taking back a statement or claim. It is often used in a lighthearted or playful manner.

For example, if someone realizes they made a mistake and wants to correct themselves, they might say, “Oops, I need to retracto what I just said.”
In a joking context, someone might say, “I hereby retracto all the bad things I said about Mondays.”
It can also be used to acknowledge a change in opinion, such as, “I used to hate spicy food, but I retracto that statement now.”

37. U-turn

U-turn is a slang term used to describe a complete reversal or change in opinion or stance. It implies a sudden shift in perspective.

For instance, if someone strongly supports a particular political candidate and then suddenly switches sides, they might be accused of doing a u-turn.
In a conversation about personal growth, someone might say, “I used to be a pessimist, but I did a u-turn and now I’m all about positivity.”
It can also be used metaphorically, such as, “After a series of failed attempts, she decided to do a u-turn and try a completely different approach.”

38. Eat your words

Eat your words is a slang phrase used to describe the act of admitting that one was wrong or retracting a previous statement. It implies a sense of humiliation or embarrassment.

For example, if someone confidently makes a prediction that turns out to be completely inaccurate, they might be told to eat their words.
In a debate or argument, if one person presents evidence that contradicts the other person’s claim, they might say, “Looks like you’ll have to eat your words.”
It can also be used in a self-reflective manner, such as, “I thought I would never enjoy sushi, but I had to eat my words after trying it for the first time.”

39. Flip-flop

Flip-flop is a slang term used to describe the act of repeatedly changing one’s opinion or position on a particular issue. It implies inconsistency or indecisiveness.

For instance, if a politician takes a strong stance on a policy and then later completely reverses their position, they might be accused of flip-flopping.
In a discussion about fashion trends, someone might say, “I used to hate skinny jeans, but now I’ve flip-flopped and they’re all I wear.”
It can also be used to criticize someone for being easily influenced, such as, “He’s always flip-flopping on his beliefs depending on who he’s talking to.”

40. Reneg

Reneg is a slang term used to describe the act of reneging or going back on a previous statement or commitment. It implies breaking a promise or retracting a claim.

For example, if someone promises to do something and then fails to follow through, they might be accused of reneging on their word.
In a business negotiation, if one party agrees to certain terms and then later tries to change them, they might be called out for reneging.
It can also be used in a more casual sense, such as, “I said I would go to the party, but I reneged because I wasn’t feeling well.”

41. Reverse course

To change one’s opinion, decision, or course of action.

For example, a politician might reverse course on a controversial policy after facing public backlash.
In a business context, a company might reverse course on a product launch due to negative market feedback.
A person might say, “I initially thought the movie was terrible, but after watching it again, I had to reverse course and admit it was actually quite good.”

42. Pull a 180

To completely change one’s position or opinion.

For instance, someone might pull a 180 on their political beliefs after learning new information.
In a personal context, a person might pull a 180 on their career path and pursue a completely different profession.
A friend might say, “I used to hate spicy food, but I pulled a 180 and now I love it.”