withdraw
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /wɪðˈdrɔː/
KK: /wɪðˈdrɔ/
intransitive verb
Definition
To pull back or remove oneself from a situation, often in a social or emotional context.
Example
After feeling overwhelmed, she decided to withdraw from the group activities for a while.
Tense Forms
Past: withdrew
Past Participle: withdrawn
Conversation
I think I might need to withdraw from the group project for a while.
Oh no, is everything okay?
Yeah, I just feel overwhelmed and need some time to myself.
I totally understand; it's important to take care of yourself.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
retreat
recede
secede
Antonyms
advance
engage
join
transitive verb
Definition
To take something back or remove it from a place or situation, such as money from a bank account or a statement made.
Example
She decided to withdraw her application for the job.
Tense Forms
Past: withdrew
Past Participle: withdrawn
Conversation
Did you hear that Jake decided to withdraw from the tournament?
Really? I thought he was really excited about it.
Yeah, he said he needed more time to practice before competing.
Root Explanation
Withdraw → It is formed from "with-" (meaning against or away) and "draw" (from Old English "dragan", meaning to pull or drag). The word "withdraw" means to pull away or take back something that was previously given or offered.
Memory Tip
Think of pulling something 'away' ('with-') — that's why withdraw means to take something back.
Visually Confused Words
rewithdraw
unwithdrawn
rewithdrawal