Word
retreating
Phoneticsre·treat·ing, stress on the second syllable
US/ɹiˈtɹitɪŋ/
UK/ɹɪtɹˈiːtɪŋ/
Definition
adj. moving back or away from a place or situation. You use this to describe someone or something that is withdrawing, often because of danger or a change in plans.
adj. moving back or withdrawing from a position or territory. Often used as a participial adjective to describe physical movement or a receding state.
Examples
“The retreating army left the city at dawn.”
“The hikers watched the retreating tide from the safety of the high cliffs.”
“As the sun began to set, the retreating shadows stretched across the valley, signaling the end of the day's work for the farmers.”
Examples
simple
“The retreating army left the city at dawn.”
contextual
“The hikers watched the retreating tide from the safety of the high cliffs.”
complex
“As the sun began to set, the retreating shadows stretched across the valley, signaling the end of the day's work for the farmers.”
Usage
Often appears as a participial adjective before a noun or after a linking verb.
Real-World Examples
“Such floods typically occur when meltwater collects in lakes around retreating glaciers, often held back by unstable ice or loose rock and sediment.” “But she has no intention of retreating in the face of threats.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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