[make|beat] a (hasty|) retreat
1
to escape or withdraw from a situation that is dangerous or unpleasant
The idiom "make a retreat" originates from military terminology, where it refers to the strategic withdrawal of forces from a battlefield or combat zone. This expression is commonly used in a broader sense to describe anyone who chooses to step back or withdraw from an unfavorable or uncomfortable position.
- Due to the impending rain we did not hang around on the summit, but instead made hasty retreat back to the van.
- The team then beats a retreat from the mall, hoping no one noticed them.
- As the weather worsened, the hikers decided to make a retreat to the safety of their camp.
- Realizing the project was not going as planned, the team leader suggested making a retreat to reassess their approach.
- The company decided to make a strategic retreat from the highly competitive market and focus on a niche segment.