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Backsliding - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Backsliding means reverting to old, often negative habits or behaviors after making progress. It is commonly used to describe a decline in personal growth, morals, or achievements.

backsliding

/ˈbækˌslaɪdɪŋ/ /ˈbækˌslaɪdɪŋ/

Definition:

Relapsing into bad habits or undesirable behavior after improvement.

Synonyms:

regression, relapse, retrogression, reversion

Part of Speech:

noun, verb (gerund)

Antonyms:

progress, improvement

Common Collocations:

moral backsliding, political backsliding, religious backsliding

Derivatives:

backslide (verb), backslider (noun)

Usage Tips:

Use "backsliding" to describe reverting to old habits, especially in moral or behavioral contexts.

Common Phrases:

"backsliding into old ways, " "prevent backsliding, " "spiritual backsliding"

Etymology:

From "back" + "slide," first used in the 16th century to describe reverting to sin.

Examples:

  • 1. After months of progress, he began backsliding into unhealthy eating habits.
  • 2. The team's backsliding cost them the championship after a strong start.
  • 3. She feared backsliding into procrastination despite her recent productivity streak.
  • 4. Religious leaders warned against backsliding into former sinful behaviors.

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