Rearguard action is a term that refers to a defensive strategy that aims to protect or rescue a group or an individual by slowing down or hindering an enemy's advance. There are several synonyms for rearguard action, such as rearguard defense, backfire, retreat, last stand, evasive action, precautionary measure, and defensive retreat. These terms describe different ways to protect or escape from an imminent threat, whether it's in military combat or any other situation that requires quick thinking and decisive action. Regardless of the context, rearguard actions require courage, determination, and strategic planning to succeed and achieve the desired outcome.