back-pedalled

She felt like Queen Victoria at her most dignified until she nearly fell off when she idly back-pedalled.

Politics 101 2010

Russia has repeatedly back-pedalled while trying to force through a political settlement that would have ensured, through unbalanced constitutional arrangements, continued Russian influence.

Max Bergmann: War over Transdniestria? 2008

Tsvangirai had previously ruled out taking part in a run-off second ballot, but back-pedalled from that position on Tuesday, indicating he would be prepared to compete under certain conditions.

ANC Daily News Briefing 2008

They have retracted nothing though they have back-pedalled furiously.

Archive 2007-01-01 Glenn Greenwald 2007

They have retracted nothing though they have back-pedalled furiously.

Clarification on the CBS/National Guard controversy Glenn Greenwald 2007

When you think of the pronouncements of Jowell who then back-pedalled and Blunkett, you get the impression of favours being called in.

Archive 2007-01-01 Praguetory 2007

When you think of the pronouncements of Jowell who then back-pedalled and Blunkett, you get the impression of favours being called in.

A Return To Quality Theatre Praguetory 2007

Alley and Schrag back-pedalled away from millennial reconstructions, with Alley making some quite extraordinary comments that the academic community could do better if it was a “priority”.

M&M at the NAS Panel « Climate Audit 2006

Nationalist spokesmen back-pedalled hurriedly, proclaiming that the pamphlet was entirely unofficial and did not represent government policy, but behind the scenes the government itself proceeded with the implementation of the C.N.O. programme almost to the letter.

reich11 1969

Men fell from their bicycles or back-pedalled violently when they saw old Charlie coming.

Cider With Rosie Lee, Laurie 1959