drop back
Third Person
drops back
Present Participle
dropping back
Past Tense
dropped back
Past Participle
dropped back
1
to take a position in the rear, especially in a military formation, for strategic purposes
- The soldiers were instructed to drop back to secure the rear of the advancing unit.
- In the tactical maneuver, the infantry was ordered to drop back to strengthen the rear guard.
- As the platoon advanced, the snipers were directed to drop back for better cover and surveillance.
- The military convoy maintained a steady pace, with armored vehicles ready to drop back in case of an ambush.
- During the night patrol, the scouts were instructed to drop back silently to avoid detection.
2
to move or retreat to a position further behind, especially in a group or a line
- During the race, the runner started to feel tired and decided to drop back from the leading pack.
- As the pace increased, some cyclists chose to drop back in the peloton.
- Feeling overwhelmed, he decided to drop back and let others take the lead in the project.
- In the crowded hallway, he chose to drop back to allow others to pass more easily.
Synonyms: