Backhanding Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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backhanding
[bรฆkหhรฆndษชล ]
Definition
sports, gesture
Backhanding refers to a type of stroke used in various sports, particularly in tennis and table tennis. It denotes a hit made with the back of the hand facing the direction of the stroke, as opposed to a forehand stroke where the palm faces the direction of the hit. This technique is essential for players as it allows for a greater variety of shots and angles. In addition to its use in sports, backhanding can also refer to delivering a slap or hit in an insincere or subtle manner.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He executed a perfect backhanding move to score a point.
- The backhanding gesture can be seen in both tennis and table tennis.
- In the dance, she included a dramatic backhanding motion.
- The player improved their backhanding technique during practice.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Usage
- In some cultures, backhanding is seen as an elegant and skilled way to hit a tennis ball, indicating finesse.
- In the context of humor, backhanded compliments blend praise with criticism, making them unique in social interactions.
Psychology
- Backhanded comments can be analyzed as a form of passive aggression, where the sender may avoid direct confrontation.
- Research shows that these types of remarks can create confusion, making it harder for people to understand intentions.
Sports
- In tennis, a strong backhand shot is often as important as a forehand, showcasing a playerโs versatility.
- Backhanding techniques vary by sport; in table tennis, it's crucial for quick play, while in badminton, it helps retain agility.
Literature
- Authors use backhanded compliments in dialogue to reveal character traits or underlying tension between characters.
- In poetry, using backhanding expressions can evoke complex emotions, suggesting layers of meaning behind the words.
Origin of 'backhanding'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from combining 'back' and 'hand', referring to the backward motion of the hand when it makes contact.
- Originally used in sports, the term has evolved to describe actions in non-sporting contexts, especially in communication.
The term 'backhand' has its origins in the late 14th century, with the word 'hand' stemming from the Old English 'handa', which referred to the human hand. The prefix 'back' describes the part of the hand used to perform this action. Etymologically, 'backhand' combines 'back', meaning the rear or opposite side, with 'hand', suggesting a distinctive motion made by using the back of the hand. In sports like tennis, the differentiation of strokes into 'forehand' and 'backhand' became necessary as players developed techniques that allowed for greater versatility and control over the ball. By the early 20th century, the term was commonly used to describe a specific stroke in tennis and has since spread to other sports and contexts, denoting a range of movements characterized by the use of the back of the hand.