Spanish Conversation · Level 76
60 words
Spanish word
retroceder
Pronunciation
IPA/retɾoθeˈðeɾ/
Meaning
- verbstep back
Example
Por favor, retrocede un paso.
Please take one step back.
More examples
Cuando el grupo avanzó, ella tuvo que retroceder un paso.
When the group advanced, she had to take a step back.
Core concept
A backward step affecting position or progress.
Common phrases
retroceder un paso
take a step back
retroceder ante la presión
give in to pressure
retroceder lentamente
retreat slowly
Similar words
dar un paso atrás: Takes a single physical step backward, shifting body position briefly.
retirarse: Withdraws from a place, role, or engagement by moving back and disengaging.
volver atrás: Returns to an earlier place, state, or decision, undoing a recent forward move.
Definition in Spanish
Volver hacia una posición anterior, aplicado tanto al movimiento físico como al avance de una actividad.
Word origin
Derived from Latin retro "back" plus cedere "to go or yield", retroceder is used for physical retreat and for falling back in an activity.
Usage tips
- When talking about losing ground in an area, use retroceder en + noun (retroceder en el progreso; retroceder en los derechos) to indicate the field in which someone has stepped back.