Backstop: meaning, definitions and examples

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backstop

[ˈbækˌstɒp ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in sports

A person or thing that serves as a support, protection, or reinforcement.

Synonyms

protection, reinforcement, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
backstop	Generally used as a term for a barrier or safeguard that prevents undesirable outcomes. Often used in sports or financial contexts. The central bank acted as a backstop to ensure the stability of the economy In baseball, the backstop prevents wild pitches from getting past the catcher
support	Commonly used to describe assistance or help provided to someone or something. It can be emotional, financial, or physical. She received a lot of support from her friends during the hard times The pillars provide support to the roof
protection	Used when referring to keeping someone or something safe from injury, damage, or loss. This term is very broad and can be used in a wide range of contexts. The helmet provides protection for your head The new policies offer protection against cyberattacks
reinforcement	Often used in the context of strengthening or supporting an existing structure or idea, whether physically or metaphorically. The construction workers added steel beams as a reinforcement to the building's structure Positive reinforcement encourages good behavior in children

Examples of usage

The goalkeeper acted as a backstop for the defense.
The safety net served as a backstop for the trapeze artist.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in finance

A security or other means of protection against financial loss.

Synonyms

guarantee, protection, safeguard.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
backstop	Used mainly in sports or in a metaphorical sense to describe a safety net or last line of defense. It can also be specific to financial contexts as a secondary mechanism. The catcher positioned himself as the backstop behind home plate. The financial backstop provided security against unexpected market fluctuations.
safeguard	Used when referring to measures or mechanisms put in place to protect someone or something from potential harm. The company installed fire alarms to safeguard employees. Strong passwords safeguard your online information from hackers.
guarantee	Used when there is an assurance or promise that something will happen or that a condition will be fulfilled. The company offers a money-back guarantee on all its products. A good education is no guarantee of a successful career.
protection	Used to describe a state of being safe or shielded from harm, danger, or loss. The new law offers better protection for workers' rights. She wore a hat for protection against the sun.

Examples of usage

The insurance policy acted as a backstop in case of unexpected expenses.
The government provided a financial backstop for the struggling industry.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

Originally, 'backstop' referred to a fence or wall behind a baseball diamond to prevent lost balls.
The term combines 'back' meaning behind, and 'stop' indicating halting movement, emphasizing its protective role.

Sports

In baseball, the backstop is crucial during pitches and provides a safety net for stray balls.
The backstop in cricket is a player who stands behind the stumps ready to catch any overthrown balls.

Finance

In finance, a backstop refers to a guarantee mechanism to protect investors from potential losses.
This concept is crucial in underwriting agreements, where backstop professionals assure the capital is raised.

Crisis Management

Emergency plans often include backstop strategies to ensure there are safety nets during crises.
A political backstop can come in the form of policies that cushion the effects of sudden changes.

Figurative Language

The word 'backstop' is often used metaphorically to describe any safeguard or support system in various contexts.
In discussions about policy or decisions, a backstop can serve as a safety measure to prevent risks.

Translations

Translations of the word "backstop" in other languages:

🇵🇹 parada de emergência

🇮🇳 पीछे की सुरक्षा

🇩🇪 Notstopp

🇮🇩 pemberhentian darurat

🇺🇦 аварійна зупинка

🇵🇱 awaryjne zatrzymanie

🇯🇵 非常停止

🇫🇷 arrêt d'urgence

🇪🇸 parada de emergencia

🇹🇷 acil durdurma

🇰🇷 비상 정지

🇸🇦 توقف الطوارئ

🇨🇿 nouzové zastavení

🇸🇰 núdzové zastavenie

🇨🇳 紧急停止

🇸🇮 nujna zaustavitev

🇮🇸 neyðarstöðvun

🇰🇿 апатты тоқтату

🇬🇪 საგანგებო გაჩერება

🇦🇿 təcili dayandırma

🇲🇽 parada de emergencia