Backdated: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when referring to something, especially a document, that has been given a date earlier than the actual date. Often involves official papers, receipts, or legal records.

• The contract was backdated to last year to avoid tax liability.
• She backdated the letter to make it seem she sent it earlier.

This term is used in a similar way to 'backdated' or 'antedated', but it often implies simple chronological order rather than an intentional act. It's common in historical or comparative contexts.

• The fossils pre-dated the arrival of humans.
• Her resignation pre-dated his promotion by two weeks.

Used to describe a law, decision, or effect that applies to periods or events in the past. Often found in legal, legislative, or policy-related contexts.

• The pay raise was made retroactive to the beginning of the year.
• The new law is not retroactive, so it won't affect previous cases.

Typically used in more formal or technical language, it means to assign an earlier date than the actual one. Often used in historical or academic contexts.

• The discovery antedates the Roman Empire.
• He antedated his signature to cover up the delay.