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Backfiring: meaning, definitions and examples

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backfiring

 

[ ˈbækfaɪərɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

motor malfunction

Backfiring occurs when fuel ignites in the engine's exhaust system, producing a loud sound. This can happen due to various issues, such as improper timing or a rich fuel mixture.

Synonyms

exploding, malfunction, misfire

Examples of usage

  • The car started backfiring after a long drive.
  • I heard my motorcycle backfiring during the ride.
  • The mechanic said the backfiring was caused by a faulty spark plug.
Context #2 | Verb

failed plan

In a metaphorical sense, backfiring refers to a plan or action that has the opposite of the intended effect, often leading to unexpected negative consequences.

Synonyms

boomerang, fail, rebound

Examples of usage

  • His attempt to embarrass her backfired spectacularly.
  • The new policy backfired, causing more issues than it solved.
  • Their strategy for increasing sales backfired and resulted in loss.

Translations

Translations of the word "backfiring" in other languages:

🇵🇹 recuperação

🇮🇳 बैकफायरिंग

🇩🇪 Rückschlag

🇮🇩 kembali

🇺🇦 зворотний удар

🇵🇱 odwrócenie

🇯🇵 バックファイア

🇫🇷 recul

🇪🇸 retroceso

🇹🇷 geri tepmek

🇰🇷 역효과

🇸🇦 ارتداد

🇨🇿 zpětný úder

🇸🇰 návrat

🇨🇳 反冲

🇸🇮 nazadovanje

🇮🇸 afturhvarf

🇰🇿 артқа қайту

🇬🇪 უკვე

🇦🇿 geri dönmə

🇲🇽 retroceso

Etymology

The term 'backfire' originates from the combination of 'back' and 'fire'. The 'back' component suggests a reversal, while 'fire' relates to combustion. Initially, it related to the unintended ignition within an engine's exhaust system, causing disruptive noise. Over time, the term evolved to portray the concept of plans or actions that result in undesirable outcomes opposite to their purpose. In the automotive context, its usage dates back to the early 20th century, becoming widely recognized in the realm of mechanics. The expansive adoption of the term reflects both its technical origins and broader metaphorical applications in everyday language.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,377, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.