Backwards - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Backwards means moving or facing in the opposite direction to the usual or forward way. It can also describe doing something in reverse order or with less progress.
Definition:
Moving or facing the opposite direction, toward the rear, or in reverse order.
Synonyms:
rearward, reverse, retrograde
Part of Speech:
adverb, adjective
Antonyms:
forwards, ahead
Common Collocations:
backwards glance, move backwards, count backwards, bend backwards, fall backwards
Derivatives:
backwardness, backwardly
Usage Tips:
Use "backwards" for direction or order; "backward" is also correct but less common in British English as an adverb.
Common Phrases:
bend over backwards, know something backwards and forwards, go backwards and forwards
Etymology:
Derived from Old English "bæcweard," combining "bæc" (back) and "-weard" (toward).
Examples:
- 1. He walked backwards to avoid stepping on the cracks.
- 2. The teacher asked us to count backwards from ten.
- 3. She glanced backwards to see if anyone was following her.
- 4. The car rolled backwards down the hill when he forgot the brake.