idiom · to strategically exit an awkward or unpromising situation upon realizing its true nature

看到对方并没有合作的诚意，他决定知难而退，不再浪费时间。

idiom · to retreat or give up a task when encountering overwhelming difficulties to avoid defeat or failure

面对重重困难，他没有选择知难而退，而是勇往直前。