withdraw
/wɪðˈdrɔː/to take back or remove something that has been given, placed, or deposited
The company withdrew its offer after discovering the candidate's misrepresentation.
The company took back its job offer after finding out the candidate lied.
Often used with 'from' to indicate the source of withdrawal.
to remove oneself from a situation, group, or activity
He withdrew from the competition due to an injury.
He left the competition because he was hurt.
Can imply a temporary or permanent departure.
to stop providing or supplying something
The government withdrew support for the project.
The government stopped funding the project.
Often used in political or organizational contexts.
to take back a statement or opinion
The spokesperson withdrew the controversial statement.
The spokesperson took back the offensive comment.
Implies retracting or disavowing something previously said.
Collocations
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Common Prepositions
Withdraw is often followed by 'from' (e.g., withdraw from a competition) or 'money' (e.g., withdraw money from a bank).
Formal vs. Informal
In formal contexts, 'withdraw' is often used for official or significant actions, while in informal contexts, it might be replaced with simpler verbs like 'leave' or 'quit'.
⚡Gold Rule
Context Matters
The meaning of 'withdraw' can vary significantly based on context. Always consider whether it refers to physical removal, emotional detachment, or a formal retraction.
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'withdrawnen', from Old English 'wiþdranian' (to draw back), from 'wiþ' (against) + 'dranian' (to draw).
📝Usage Notes
Can be used both literally (removing physical objects) and figuratively (removing oneself from a situation). Often followed by 'from' to specify the source or context of withdrawal.