Retreat: meaning, definitions and examples

Duplicate of the first entry. Please refer to the initial 'retreat' entry above.

Can be used in both military and non-military contexts, often indicating a formal or systematic process of removing presence or participation. In psychological contexts, it can also describe a reduction in social interaction.

• The general ordered a withdrawal of forces from the dangerous zone.
• Her sudden withdrawal from social activities concerned her friends.

Refers to the organized removal of people from a dangerous place to safety. Commonly used in emergency situations, such as natural disasters, fires, or other serious threats.

• The evacuation of the city began as soon as the hurricane warning was issued.
• The building's alarm triggered an immediate evacuation.

Often used in a military or business context, indicating a strategic reduction in presence or investment. Can imply a temporary or tactical withdrawal.

• Due to financial constraints, the company announced a pullback on its overseas operations.
• The troops executed a tactical pullback to strengthen their defenses.

This word fits well when talking about a place where someone can go to relax or escape from daily stress. It is often used in the context of vacations or personal relaxation.

• She booked a weekend retreat in the mountains to relax and unwind
• After a long week, he often retreats to his countryside home

This word is suitable for a secret or secluded place where someone goes to be alone or evade others. It is often used for small, cozy spots.

• They found a charming hideaway by the sea for their honeymoon
• He keeps a hideaway in the attic where he writes his novels

This word is often used when referring to a place that offers protection and peace, commonly in a religious or formal context. It can also be used to refer to a place of refuge for animals.

• The church served as a sanctuary for those seeking refuge
• The animal sanctuary provides a safe home for injured wildlife

This word is used for a place that provides safety and comfort. It's often used to describe places that offer emotional or physical protection.

• The library was her haven from the chaotic world
• The park serves as a haven for many local wildlife species

This word is used when a person, group, or army moves back from a position because of danger or defeat. It often has a military context.

• The soldiers had to retreat to a safer location.
• During the heavy rain, we decided to retreat to our car.

Used in both physical and non-physical contexts to mean taking back or moving something away. It can describe removing oneself from a situation, an activity, or taking money out from a bank.

• She decided to withdraw from the competition.
• He withdrew a large sum of money from his bank account.

This term is generally used for things that gradually move back or away, such as water, hairlines, or other tangible objects.

• The flood waters began to recede after the storm.
• As he aged, his hairline started to recede.

This phrase is commonly used when making a strategic decision to move back from a position, both in military and non-military settings. It can also mean to reduce or take away support.

• The general ordered the troops to pull back before dawn.
• Investors decided to pull back their funds from the volatile market.