English Expression · Intermediate
bow out
To resign, or leave, with one's credibility or reputation still intact
Pronunciation: /baʊ aʊt/
Meaning
To resign, or leave, with one's credibility or reputation still intact.
Example
Jane had a long spell as chairman, but bowed out after she had a child.
Jane had a long spell as chairman, but bowed out after she had a child.
Practice tips
- Practice bow out out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this English expression is for intermediate-level learners.