Rearwards: meaning, definitions and examples

Primarily used in military or formal contexts to indicate movement towards the back.

• The troops marched rearwards to regroup.
• She directed the soldiers to move rearwards.

Used to describe movement or facing towards the back. Can also imply regression or lack of progress, often with a negative connotation.

• He took a step backward to avoid the falling object.
• The company's policies seemed rather backward and outdated.

Commonly used in daily speech to describe movement in the opposite direction from forward. Slightly more colloquial than 'backward'.

• She walked backwards to keep an eye on the kids.
• He did a backwards somersault.

Used to describe something or someone at the back of another thing or person. Common in everyday language.

• The cat is hiding behind the couch.
• He was standing behind me in line.

Frequently used in formal contexts to indicate direction towards the back.

• The exit is to the rear of the building.
• They moved to the rear to avoid the crowd.

Used primarily in British English, 'rearwards' means towards the back or in a direction towards the rear. It's often used in formal or technical language.

• The troops moved rearwards to avoid the enemy fire.
• The car reversed rearwards into the parking spot.

This word is commonly used in everyday language to indicate movement in the direction opposite to forward. It can also mean regressing or moving to an earlier state.

• She took a step backwards to avoid the puddle.
• The policy changes seemed like a step backwards for the company.

Used to describe thinking or talking about past events or actions. It's often employed when reflecting on history or something that occurred earlier.

• He gazed out the window, his thoughts drifting into the past.
• Historians often delve into the past to understand current events.

Similar to 'into the past', but usually indicates a sense of moving or looking in the direction of historical events or earlier times. It often implies a consideration of a specific period or a return to previous ways.

• Their research took them towards the past, uncovering ancient documents.
• The museum exhibit is designed to lead visitors towards the past.