quick to retreat

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "quick to retreat" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that withdraws or backs down rapidly in response to a situation or challenge. Example: "In the face of criticism, he was quick to retreat from his earlier statements."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Lula seemed quick to retreat.

The Economist

His Morocco side was undoubtedly the tournament's most organised, quick to retreat into defensive positions when it lost the ball, and creative up front.

The Guardian - Sport

The Black Cats played with just Stephane Sessegnon up front, and once McClean had given Wojciech Szczesny an early wake-up call, they were quick to retreat with Lee Cattermole typically tigerish in midfield.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Yet some have been too-quick to retreat into their specific ideological camps while completely denying the validity of any others.

Huffington Post

If its revenue growth remains quick, and its losses stall, and begin to retreat, the company has a way out of the woods.

TechCrunch

The regiment, composed mostly of black troops, was criticized by the Army for being quick to panic and retreat.

Wikipedia

Quick About-Face For General Clark LEAVE it to a military man to know when to retreat.

The New York Times

We were forced to retreat and retreat.

The New Yorker

The Aletsch began to retreat.

The New York Times

South wanted to retreat to two hearts.

The New York Times

We have nowhere to retreat to.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In tactical or strategic contexts, use "quick to retreat" to suggest a flexible approach. For example, a military unit might be "quick to retreat" in order to regroup.

Common error

Avoid using "quick to retreat" in situations where strategic repositioning or tactical adjustments are meant to be viewed positively. Ensure the connotation aligns with the intended message, as it can sometimes imply a lack of resolve.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "quick to retreat" functions as an adjective phrase followed by an infinitive, describing a tendency or readiness to withdraw rapidly. Ludwig AI indicates it describes someone who rapidly back down or pull away from an aggressive stance.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Wiki

13%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "quick to retreat" effectively describes a readiness to withdraw or back down rapidly in response to a situation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. While not overly common, its usage is primarily found in news and media contexts, indicating a neutral register. Related phrases include "swift to withdraw" and "rapidly backs down". When using this phrase, consider the potential implications of implying a lack of resolve and ensure it aligns with the intended message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

swift to withdraw

Emphasizes the speed and decisiveness of the withdrawal.

rapidly backs down

Highlights the action of conceding or yielding quickly.

readily concedes

Focuses on the willingness to give in or admit defeat easily.

promptly reverses course

Indicates a quick change of direction or strategy.

quickly backs off

Suggests a rapid disengagement from a situation or position.

immediately yields

Emphasizes the lack of resistance and immediate surrender.

hastily recedes

Implies a rushed and somewhat disorganized withdrawal.

swiftly disengages

Focuses on the speed and efficiency of the disengagement.

fleetingly backs out

Suggests a very temporary and hesitant withdrawal.

retreats without delay

Highlights the absence of hesitation in the withdrawal.

FAQs

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

You can use "quick to retreat" to describe someone or something that withdraws rapidly in response to a challenge or pressure. For example: "The government was "quick to retreat" after the public outcry".

What are some alternatives to "quick to retreat"?

Some alternatives include "swift to withdraw", "rapidly backs down", or "readily concedes", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "quick to retreat" in writing?

It is appropriate when you want to emphasize the speed and readiness with which someone or something withdraws from a position or commitment. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts, depending on the situation.

What's the difference between "quick to retreat" and "strategic withdrawal"?

"Quick to retreat" often implies a reactive or defensive move, possibly under pressure, while "strategic withdrawal" suggests a planned and calculated maneuver, often for tactical advantage. The phrase "strategic withdrawal" carries a more positive connotation of planning and foresight.