step back

Short definition from Wiktionary

Verb

1. 1
   Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see step, back.
2. 2
   To stop what one is doing and evaluate the current situation.
3. 3
   To prevent oneself from becoming emotionally involved in a certain situation.
4. 4
   to depart driving the train following the train they arrived into the station driving, so as to decrease service turnaround time.
5. 5
   To retreat from one's duties in a job; to reduce one's duties, often as a prelude to leaving a position; to take a back seat.
6. 6
   To quietly abandon a belief.

Noun

1. 1
   A setback, downgrade, or deterioration.
2. 2
   A reversion to a former state or situation.