Definition

The act of taking back or withdrawing something that was previously said or written, often in a formal way.

Example

The scientist issued a retraction of her earlier claims after new evidence was presented.

Conversation

Did you hear about the retraction the newspaper had to issue?

Yeah, I saw that! It was quite a big deal.

I wonder what made them change their story like that.

Sometimes, they just need to correct a mistake to keep their credibility.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Retraction → It is formed from "re-" (meaning back or again) and "tract" (from Latin "tractus", meaning to pull or draw). The word "retraction" means the act of pulling back or withdrawing something that was previously stated or offered.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pulling back' ('tract') something 'again' ('re-') — that's why retraction means to withdraw a statement.

Visually Confused Words