# inch back

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/inch-back
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To move something backward by a very small amount, often in a slow and gradual way.

## Examples

- Please inch back so I can close the door.
- The driver had to inch back slowly to avoid hitting the wall behind the car.
- As the crowd surged forward, the security guard had to inch back to maintain a safe distance from the stage.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.