Translation guide
The English verb "retract" covers several distinct actions: physically pulling something back, taking back a statement, or formally withdrawing an offer or claim. Japanese uses different verbs for each situation.
To admit that something you said was wrong and say it is no longer true
The most common and neutral way to say you retract a statement, opinion, or claim. Used in both formal and everyday contexts.
彼は発言を撤回した。
He retracted his statement.
The newspaper retracted the incorrect article.
Literally 'to overturn one's previous words.' Implies a dramatic reversal of what was said, often used when someone goes back on a promise or strong statement.
彼は前言を翻して、辞任すると言った。
He retracted his earlier statement and said he would resign.
A more casual, everyday expression meaning 'to cancel what one said.' Often used in personal arguments or apologies.
さっきの言葉、取り消すよ。
I retract what I just said.
To draw something back into itself or back from where it was extended
Used for pulling back body parts (like a hand or head) or retractable objects (like claws or landing gear).
猫が爪を引っ込めた。
The cat retracted its claws.
飛行機は車輪を引っ込めた。
The airplane retracted its landing gear.
Intransitive version: something retracts or goes back in by itself. Often used for things that automatically retract.
Technical term for retracting mechanical parts like landing gear or antennas into a storage compartment.
パイロットは着陸装置を格納した。
The pilot retracted the landing gear.
To officially take back something that was formally proposed or stated
Also used for formal withdrawals of offers, accusations, or legal claims. The same word as for retracting a statement, but context makes the meaning clear.
会社は提案を撤回した。
The company retracted its proposal.
検察は告訴を撤回した。
The prosecution retracted the charges.
Specifically used for withdrawing a formal application, complaint, or legal document. Common in legal and bureaucratic contexts.
撤回する is the most general term for retracting statements, opinions, or formal proposals. 取り消す is more like 'cancel' or 'nullify' and is used for orders, reservations, or words spoken in anger. 取り下げる is specifically for withdrawing documents or legal actions.
引っ込める only means physical retraction. Using it for retracting a statement would sound like you are physically pulling words back, which is unnatural.
The turtle's head retracted.
彼は訴訟を取り下げた。
He retracted the lawsuit.