1.
to not back down an inch; to not give any ground; to stand firm
To refuse to yield or retreat even slightly. Expresses determination and unwillingness to compromise or concede. Literally 'to not retreat even one step.'
彼は一歩も引かなかった。
He didn't back down at all.
交渉で両者とも一歩も引かない姿勢を見せた。
In the negotiations, both sides showed an unwillingness to give any ground.
自分の信念に関しては一歩も引かないつもりだ。
When it comes to my beliefs, I intend not to budge an inch.
Literally means 'to not retreat even one step.' A vivid expression that conveys firmness, determination, and refusal to yield.
USAGE:
Used in situations involving confrontation, debate, negotiation, or competition. Can describe either admirable resolve or stubborn inflexibility, depending on context.
VARIATIONS:
- 一歩も引かず: continuative form — 'without backing down'
- 一歩も引けない: potential negative — 'cannot afford to back down'
- 一歩も譲らない: a close synonym — 'not concede even one step'
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 一歩も引かない姿勢: an unyielding stance
- 一歩も引かない構え: a resolute posture
- 一歩も引かない態度: an unwavering attitude
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 頑なに譲らない: stubbornly refusing to concede — emphasizes stubbornness more
- 断固として: resolutely, firmly — an adverb with similar nuance
- 後に引けない: cannot back down — implies being in too deep to retreat