Backward: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used to describe movement in the opposite direction from which one is facing or progress in a regressive manner.

• He took a step backward to avoid the puddle.
• The project is moving backward instead of progressing.

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.

• He put the car into reverse and backed out of the driveway.
• The company decided to reverse the policy after receiving critical feedback.

Generally used in more formal or technical contexts to describe something towards the back or a backward direction.

• The soldiers took up positions at the rearward of the convoy.
• He adjusted the rearward mirror before driving.

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.

• The planet appears to be in retrograde motion.
• The recent policy changes are seen as retrograde steps by many.

Used mainly in reference to an action or movement directed to the back.

• She looked backward to see if someone was following her.
• He stumbled backward and fell.

Used to describe the action of performing an activity in the opposite direction or order from the usual.

• She put the car in reverse to back out of the parking spot.
• Watching the video in reverse was quite amusing.

Common in British English to describe movement or action directed toward the back. It can also imply a return to a less advanced state.

• He walked backwards to get a better view of the painting.
• This decision feels like a step backwards for our community.

Formal or literary term for indicating direction towards the back.

• The troops marched rearwards, retreating from the frontlines.
• He directed his gaze rearwards, over his shoulder.