Retractie

Retractie, or retractie in Dutch, is the act of drawing something back or withdrawing a statement, claim, or position. The term derives from Latin retractus, meaning “brought back.” It is used in both physical and figurative senses, and can refer to mechanisms that can extend or pull parts back, as well as to the withdrawal of information or commitments.

In the physical sense, retractie can describe movements or devices that pull a part toward the body or a fixed point. In anatomy and zoology, it refers to muscles or actions that draw a limb or other structure backward. In technology and design, retractable mechanisms allow components such as antennas, blades, or tools to extend for use and retract for storage or protection.

In scholarly publishing, a retraction is a formal withdrawal of a published article from the scientific record. It typically results from major errors, data fabrication, plagiarism, or other misconduct. A retraction notice explains the reasons and is issued by the publisher, the authors, or both, with the aim of correcting the literature and maintaining trust.

In law and public discourse, retractie also covers the withdrawal of statements, confessions, or testimony, as well as the revocation of claims or commitments. The act can affect credibility and legal or professional standing depending on the context and reasons for the withdrawal.

Overall, retractie denotes pulling back or revoking something that was previously stated, published, or constructed, whether in a physical, informational, or procedural sense.