1.
to step aside; to withdraw; to retire from a position or relationship
To voluntarily remove oneself from a role, position, or relationship, typically out of a sense of propriety, self-sacrifice, or awareness that one's presence is no longer appropriate.
彼は身を引く決断をした。
He made the decision to step aside.
後進に道を譲るため、身を引いた。
He stepped aside to make way for the next generation.
二人の幸せのために、彼女は静かに身を引いた。
For the sake of their happiness, she quietly withdrew.
An expression meaning to voluntarily remove oneself from a situation. Carries a sense of grace, self-sacrifice, or mature judgment. Can apply to professional roles (retiring, resigning) or personal relationships (stepping back so others can be happy).
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 静かに身を引く: to quietly withdraw
- 潔く身を引く: to step aside gracefully
- 身を引く決意: the resolve to step aside
USAGE:
Often implies that staying would cause problems or that leaving is the honorable choice. In romantic contexts, it suggests giving up on a relationship for the other person's benefit. In professional contexts, it means retiring or resigning to let others take over.
SIMILAR EXPRESSIONS:
- 手を引く: to pull out — focuses on ceasing involvement in a project or business; less emotional
- 辞退する: to decline, to withdraw — more formal; used for declining offers or nominations