hang back

• Permanecer en un lugar después de que otros se han ido, o mostrarse indeciso o reacio a unirse a una actividad o conversación.

To remain in a place after others have left, or to hesitate or be reluctant to join in an activity or conversation.

1. Stay behind or delayB2informal

   To remain in a place or situation while others move forward or leave.

   quedarse atrás

   • He hung back while the others went into the room.
   • She hung back to talk to the teacher after class.
   • The shy child hung back from the group.

2. Hesitate or be reluctantB2informal

   To be unwilling to act or participate due to nervousness or uncertainty.

   dudar en actuar

   • He hung back from asking the question.
   • She hung back when it was her turn to speak.
   • Don't hang back; just go for it.