retract
ri-TRAKT
/rɪˈtrækt/
To draw back or withdraw a statement, accusation, promise, or physical part.
Retract is used when a statement is formally declared to be false or invalid by the person who originally made it.
The story behind the word. Retract comes from the Latin 'retrahere', meaning 'to pull back'. It shares a family tree with words like 'tractor' (a vehicle that pulls) and 'attract' (to pull toward). When you retract a statement, you are metaphorically reaching out and pulling your words back into your mouth.
Word relationships
- recant: Recant specifically refers to formally rejecting a previously held belief, opinion, or doctrine, often under pressure.
- withdraw: Withdraw is a broader term that can apply to statements, physical objects, or participation.
- assert: Assert means to state a fact or belief confidently and forcefully.
- reiterate: Reiterate means to say something again for emphasis or clarity.
Commonly confused with
- refute: To refute is to prove a statement to be false; to retract is to take back your own statement.
Word family
- retraction (noun): A public statement withdrawing an earlier assertion.
Collocations
- retract a statement
- retract allegations
- forced to retract
Example sentences
- "The newspaper was forced to retract the false allegations after being threatened with a libel lawsuit." A media outlet correcting a major error.
- "The witness decided to retract her statement after being shown the video evidence." A witness changing their testimony.
Memory hook
Think of a cat's 'retractable' claws. They pull back inside. When you retract a statement, you pull your words back inside. Retract = Pull back like claws.
When not to use
Do not use when simply correcting a minor verbal slip; use 'correct' or 'rephrase'.
Fun facts
- In biology, snails have retractable tentacles, and cats have retractable claws—both using the exact same root concept of pulling back.
Related words
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