Pulling back can refer to physically moving away from something or emotionally withdrawing from a situation. Some synonyms for this phrase include retreating, receding, withdrawing, backing off, and stepping back. These terms are often used in contexts where someone needs to take a step back to reassess or reflect on a situation before moving forward. In relationships, pulling back can often be seen as a form of emotional self-protection, and synonyms like distancing, disengaging and retreating can be helpful in understanding this behavior. Regardless of the context, pulling back or any of its synonyms can be a valuable tool for taking a moment to gather one's thoughts and regain composure.