Bowing out is a phrase that is commonly used in various contexts. It is a phrase that is used to describe the act of withdrawing from a situation or event. The phrase has a figurative meaning, and it is often used to describe someone who is stepping down from a position or retiring from a job.
Definitions
The phrase bowing out has several definitions, depending on the context in which it is used. Some of the definitions of bowing out include:
- To withdraw from a situation or event.
- To resign from a position or job.
- To retire from a career or profession.
- To concede defeat in a competition or contest.
Origin
The phrase bowing out has its roots in the act of bowing, which is a gesture of respect or submission. The phrase is believed to have originated in the world of theater, where actors would take a bow at the end of a performance to acknowledge the audience’s applause. Over time, the phrase came to be used in a broader sense to describe the act of withdrawing from a situation or event.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The phrase bowing out has a similar meaning in different dictionaries. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, bowing out means “to withdraw from an activity or situation.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “to retire or resign from a position or job.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “to stop being involved in an activity or situation.”
Associations
Bowing out is often associated with the act of quitting or giving up. However, it can also be associated with the act of taking a step back to allow others to take the lead. In some cases, bowing out can be seen as a sign of wisdom and maturity, especially when it is done to avoid conflict or preserve relationships.
Synonyms
There are several synonyms for bowing out, including:
- Resigning.
- Retiring.
- Stepping down.
- Withdrawing.
- Quitting.
- Conceding.
- Surrendering.
Antonyms
The antonyms of bowing out include:
- Staying.
- Continuing.
- Persisting.
- Enduring.
- Persevering.
- Fighting.
The same root words
The phrase bowing out does not have any root words. However, it is related to the act of bowing, which is a gesture of respect or submission.
Example Sentences
- After 40 years of service, John is bowing out of the company.
- The coach decided to bow out of the competition to give his players a chance to shine.
- The politician announced that he would be bowing out of the race for re-election.
- The CEO’s decision to bow out of the negotiations saved the company from a costly mistake.
In conclusion, bowing out is a phrase that is commonly used to describe the act of withdrawing from a situation or event. It has a figurative meaning and is often used to describe someone who is stepping down from a position or retiring from a job. The phrase has its roots in the act of bowing, which is a gesture of respect or submission. While bowing out can be associated with the act of quitting or giving up, it can also be seen as a sign of wisdom and maturity.