B1verb3K

Recede

UK //rɪˈsiːd//US //rɪˈsiːd//

Definition

To move back or withdraw from a previous position.

In simple words: to go back or move away from something

Examples

The floodwaters began to recede after the heavy rain stopped.
Her fears started to recede as she faced the situation calmly.
The soldiers had to recede from their position when they were outnumbered.
As night fell, the sound of the waves receded into silence.
The company's profits are expected to recede this year despite the efforts.

Usage notes

Used in contexts involving distance, time, or emotions. Suitable for formal and informal settings but avoid in highly casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

recede + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 're-sink', imagine the tide going back into the ocean.

Collocations

recede from view
recede into the background
fear recedes
water recedes
hairline recedes

Synonyms

withdraw
ebb
diminish
lessen
taper

Antonyms

advance
approach
increase

Common mistakes

Confusing with 'access' instead of 'recede'
Using with wrong prepositions, like 'to recede on' instead of 'from'
Overusing in non-physical contexts, where 'reduce' might be more appropriate