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Region: General | Usage example: They beat a retreat after the threats escalated

Beat a retreat

Meaning

Withdraw quickly from a situation

Usage

Used when backing out to avoid danger or escalation

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Military drumbeat signaling withdrawal

Used in accounts of battles since the 18th century

Related Idioms

Beat around the bush

Avoid stating something directly.

Beat a dead horse

Waste effort on something already decided.

Beat the odds

Succeed despite unlikely circumstances.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.