Backward Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
backward
[หbรฆkwษrd ]
Definitions
in time or order
Directed or moving toward the rear; reversed.
Synonyms
rearward, retrograde, reverse.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| backward |
Commonly used to describe movement in the opposite direction from which one is facing or progress in a regressive manner.
|
| reverse |
Commonly used in everyday language to indicate changing the direction or result to the opposite, often with machines or processes. It may also be used to describe undoing a previous decision.
|
| rearward |
Generally used in more formal or technical contexts to describe something towards the back or a backward direction.
|
| retrograde |
Often used in scientific, astronomical, or formal contexts to describe motion in the opposite direction to normal, or a reversal of a trend. It may sometimes carry a negative connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- The car was parked backward in the driveway.
- She wore her jacket backward by accident.
- He read the book backward from the last chapter to the first.
in direction or manner
In a direction opposite to the usual one.
Synonyms
backwards, in reverse, rearwards.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| backward |
Used mainly in reference to an action or movement directed to the back.
|
| in reverse |
Used to describe the action of performing an activity in the opposite direction or order from the usual.
|
| backwards |
Common in British English to describe movement or action directed toward the back. It can also imply a return to a less advanced state.
|
| rearwards |
Formal or literary term for indicating direction towards the back.
|
Examples of usage
- She walked backward to admire the view.
- He did the experiment backward to check for errors.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In stories, characters sometimes learn valuable lessons by reflecting on their past, representing a metaphorical 'backward' journey.
- The concept of looking backward is often used in poetry to express nostalgia or longing for the past.
- Some famous literary works play with time, showing characters moving backward in time to change events.
Psychology
- Research shows that some people benefit from 'backward' thinking, where they start with solutions and work back to the problem.
- In cognitive therapy, looking back can help individuals understand patterns and triggers of their behavior.
- Regressing to a backward state can sometimes be a temporary coping mechanism in stressful situations.
Culture
- In some cultures, moving backward during festivals or ceremonies symbolizes humility and respect.
- The concept of a 'backward glance' is popular in various cultures, symbolizing reflection on oneโs journey or life choices.
- In certain dances, moving backward is a key aspect, adding a unique artistic expression to the performance.
Science
- In physics, certain models demonstrate how systems can behave in reverse, such as reversing the direction of motion.
- Some animals, like certain reptiles, have the ability to move backward easily, showcasing adaptability in their environment.
- Backward conditioning in psychology involves learning a response to a stimulus by reversing the usual order of events.
Origin of 'backward'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English 'bacweard', which means 'toward the back'.
- In historical texts, this term was often used to describe a direction or movement contrary to the usual.
- Initially, many cultures viewed backward movement as less desirable, implying regression or a lack of progress.
The word 'backward' originated from the combination of 'back' and 'ward'. The usage of 'backward' in English can be traced back to the 15th century, where it was used to describe something directed or moving toward the rear. Over time, the word has evolved to also include the meaning of in a direction opposite to the usual one. Today, 'backward' is commonly used in both contexts in everyday language.
See also: back, backbone, backchat, backdrop, backed, backer, backers, backhander, backing, backline, backmarker, backpack, backroom, backside, backspace, backstop, backup, backwards, backyard, unbacked.