take a step back verb1 •(figurative) To withdraw temporarily from a situation in order to evaluate it; to cease one's course of action and take a moment to reflect on it; to try and gain some perspective.By establishing GBR, the Department for Transport intends to "take a step back" from the day-to-day running of the railways, which will be music to the ears of many. — 2025 formstook a step back · taken a step back · taking a step back · takes a step back
