Backsliding: meaning, definitions and examples

Use in situations where someone is returning to old, often negative, habits or behaviors that they had previously abandoned. This term may apply to various contexts such as personal goals, addiction recovery, or religious faith.

• After months of following a strict diet, she started backsliding, indulging in junk food again

Primarily used in medical or behavioral contexts, especially concerning addiction or mental health. It refers to a person returning to a previous state of illness or problematic behavior after a period of improvement.

• Despite months of sobriety, he had a relapse and began drinking again

Commonly used in both religious and non-religious contexts to describe a gradual decline or loss of commitment to one's beliefs, values, or goals. It suggests a slow process rather than an abrupt change.

• Many people experience a falling away from their childhood beliefs as they grow older and face new experiences

Often used in a religious or ideological context where someone renounces or abandons their faith or principles. It carries a strong implication of a definitive break from previously held beliefs.

• His public declaration of apostasy shocked the community, as he had been a devout follower for years

Often used in a religious or moral context to indicate a return to sinful behaviors.

• The congregation was worried about the pastor’s backsliding into immoral conduct

Used to describe a return to a previous, typically less advanced or less developed state, and can be applied in fields like psychology, economies, or technology.

• The child’s regression in behavior was concerning to the parents after noticing he had reverted to old habits

Indicates a worsening condition, especially over time, and often used in relation to physical health, structures, or conditions.

• The deterioration of the building was evident by the collapsing roof and moldy walls

Used to describe a gradual and continuous loss of strength, numbers, quality, or value in a variety of contexts such as health, economy, or societal standards.

• The economic decline of the region has led to high unemployment rates

Commonly used in moral, religious, or ethical contexts to describe someone who is falling back into bad habits or sinful behavior after having improved.

• After months of sobriety, he started backsliding into his old drinking habits

Used to describe a return to a less advanced or worse state, often in the context of development, behavior, or skills. It can have a negative connotation.

• The child's behavior appears to regress whenever he is stressed

Usually used to describe the worsening of physical conditions, health, or quality over time. It implies a gradual process.

• Her health began to deteriorate rapidly after the diagnosis

Used in a broad range of contexts to indicate a general decrease or reduction in quality, quantity, or importance. It is often used in formal or business settings.

• The company's profits showed a significant decline last quarter