backtrack

• Zurückgehen oder Zurückverfolgen des eigenen Weges; im übertragenen Sinn das Zurücknehmen oder Abrücken von einer früheren Entscheidung, Meinung oder Position.

A verb used to indicate the act of retracing one's steps or reversing a previous decision or opinion.

1. Retrace one's courseB2formal

   To go back along the same path or route that one has just traveled.

   Den eigenen Weg zurückverfolgen

   • We had to backtrack through the forest when we realized we were lost.
   • The hikers backtracked to the last trail marker.
   • He backtracked along the river to find his dropped keys.

   Synonymedouble backgo backturn back

2. Reverse a decision or opinionB2informal

   To change one's previous statement, opinion, or decision, often due to pressure or new information.

   Eine Entscheidung zurücknehmen

   • The politician backtracked on his promise after public criticism.
   • She initially agreed but later backtracked when she saw the details.
   • The company backtracked on its plan to raise prices.

   Synonymeclimb downrecantretractreversetake back

   Antonymeinsistmaintainpersiststanduphold