Backpedal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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backpedal

[หˆbรฆkหŒpษ›dษ™l ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

physical movement

To backpedal means to move backward on a bicycle or similar vehicle while pedaling. The term can also refer to the act of retreating or reversing oneโ€™s previous position or statement, typically to avoid criticism or misinterpretation.

Synonyms

recant, retract, reverse, withdraw.

Examples of usage

  • He had to backpedal quickly to avoid the oncoming vehicle.
  • After the backlash, the politician decided to backpedal on his controversial remarks.
  • The company had to backpedal on its initial product launch timeline.
  • She realized her mistake and chose to backpedal during the discussion.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Backpedaling can often occur in social situations where someone feels pressured or embarrassed by their previous statements.
  • Cognitive dissonance is a psychological reason why individuals may backpedal, as they strive to align their beliefs with their actions.

Pop Culture

  • Many politicians have been known to backpedal on their statements, especially when faced with public backlash or changing circumstances.
  • In various films and TV shows, characters frequently illustrate backpedaling in humorous ways when they face awkward situations.

Sports

  • In football, a player might backpedal to reposition themselves faster, a metaphor for adjusting oneโ€™s stance in conversation.
  • Athletes are often seen backpedaling to avoid an opponent, drawing a parallel to how people might navigate discussions to avoid conflict.

Literature

  • Authors sometimes use backpedaling in character development, making them rethink decisions to create depth or tension in the story.
  • In classic literature, characters who backpedal often face moral dilemmas, revealing inner conflict and growth.

Origin of 'backpedal'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'backpedal' originated in the early 1900s, initially used in cycling contexts to refer to pedaling backward.
  • The combination of 'back' meaning 'reversal' and 'pedal' refers to the action of moving backward on a bicycle.

The word 'backpedal' originated from the combination of 'back', meaning toward the rear, and 'pedal', which refers to the foot-operated lever on a bicycle. The term gained popularity in the late 20th century as cycling became more common and as a metaphorical expression to convey the action of retreating or retraction in conversation or policy. It was originally used in a literal sense in cycling, indicating the action of pedaling backward to slow down or stop. Over time, the usage expanded to include figurative meanings, particularly in political discourse, where politicians would 'backpedal' to distance themselves from previously stated positions. The versatility of the term has allowed it to permeate various forms of media and conversation.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,070, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.