身(み)を引(ひ)く

みをひく

expression

to step aside; to withdraw; to retire from a position

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(かれ)は身(み)を引(ひ)く決断(けつだん)をした。

He made the decision to step aside.

後進(こうしん)に道(みち)を譲(ゆず)るため、身(み)を引(ひ)いた。

He stepped aside to make way for the next generation.

二人(ふたり)の幸(しあわ)せのために、彼女(かのじょ)は静(しず)かに身(み)を引(ひ)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(しず)かに身(み)を引(ひ)く: to quietly withdraw
潔(いさぎよ)く身(み)を引(ひ)く: to step aside gracefully
身(み)を引(ひ)く決意(けつい): 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 words

手(て)を引(ひ)く: to pull out — focuses on ceasing involvement in a project or business; less emotional
辞退(じたい)する: to decline, to withdraw — more formal; used for declining offers or nominations

Related Words

Compare: 辞退(じたい)する (to decline, to withdraw)

general

Added 2026.3.28 16:35 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:01

20000/20072_miwohiku