a retreat

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a retreat" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
You can use the phrase "a retreat" to refer to a quiet or secluded place, a period of withdrawal or seclusion, or a military maneuver to withdraw from a position. For example: 1. The cabin in the mountains was a perfect retreat for our family vacation. 2. John is taking a retreat at a Buddhist monastery to reflect on his life. 3. The soldiers were ordered to make a retreat after realizing they were outnumbered by the enemy. 4. The company hosted a team-building retreat to improve communication and collaboration among employees. 5. My boss approved my request for a retreat to a beach resort for some much-needed rest and relaxation.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"A retreat?

The New Yorker

Investors beat a retreat.

The New York Times

For Mr. Mraz this is a retreat.

The New York Times - Arts

Finding such a retreat was not easy.

The New York Times

Fifty-nine survivors attempted a retreat.

The New Yorker

One Sheikh negotiating for a retreat.

The New York Times

Can this truly be called a "retreat"?

The Guardian - Opinion

A retreat, if you like.

The Guardian - Travel

A retreat is a revolt.

The Guardian - Travel

"It's a retreat," he continued.

The New York Times

Even that was a retreat for Mr Abe.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a retreat" when you want to refer to a physical place that offers tranquility and escape from daily stress. For example, "The yoga studio is designed as a retreat from the city's chaos".

Common error

Avoid using "a retreat" in highly formal or technical writing where more precise terms like "reduction", "recession" or "abatement" would be more appropriate. For example, don't say "The company announced a retreat in profits" when you should say "The company announced a reduction in profits".

Linguistic Context

A retreat functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and demonstrates that it often describes a place of refuge or the act of withdrawing. Examples include "It's a retreat" and "She beat a retreat".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

15%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a retreat" is a versatile noun phrase commonly used to describe a place of refuge, a period of withdrawal, or a strategic maneuver. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and wide usage across various contexts. While predominantly found in news and media, its application spans science, wiki, and even encyclopedic references. When using "a retreat", consider its connotation of seeking peace or changing direction, and avoid overly formal contexts where more precise terminology is required. The phrase's frequency and diverse applications make it a valuable addition to any writer's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a withdrawal

Emphasizes the act of pulling back from a position or situation.

a haven

Highlights the aspect of finding a safe and peaceful place.

an escape

Focuses on the idea of breaking free from something unpleasant.

a sanctuary

Similar to "a haven", but with a stronger connotation of sacredness or protection.

a refuge

Like "a haven", but suggesting a need for protection from danger or distress.

a strategic withdrawal

Specifically refers to a military or tactical maneuver.

a step back

Implies a deliberate move away from a previous course of action.

a time out

Suggests a temporary break or pause for rest or reflection.

a period of seclusion

Highlights the aspect of being alone and away from others.

a place of quiet

Focuses on the tranquility and peacefulness of the location.

FAQs

How can I use "a retreat" in a sentence?

You can use "a retreat" to describe a place for peace and quiet, like "The cabin in the woods was a perfect retreat from the city". It can also refer to withdrawing, as in, "The army ordered a retreat".

What's the difference between "a retreat" and "an escape"?

"A retreat" often implies a planned or deliberate withdrawal to a peaceful place or a strategic repositioning, while "an escape" suggests fleeing from danger or confinement. While both can involve leaving a situation, "a retreat" has less sense of urgency or threat.

What can I say instead of "a retreat" when referring to a military action?

For military contexts, consider using terms like "a strategic withdrawal", "a fallback", or "a regrouping". These phrases more accurately convey the tactical nature of the maneuver.

When is it appropriate to use "a retreat" to describe a change in policy?

You can use "a retreat" to describe a shift in policy when an organization or government abandons a previous position or strategy. For example, "The government signaled a retreat from its earlier stance on climate change".