Backward vs Backwards

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

	Backward	Backwards
Meaning	Going in the direction opposite to where you are facing.	In the direction that is opposite to the front.
CEFR level	B1	B1
Part of speech	adjective	adverb
Usage notes	Use 'backward' to describe movement or position. It’s appropriate in both casual and formal contexts but less common in positive situations; often used in negative or cautionary remarks.	Use 'backwards' when describing movement in the reverse direction. It's more common in everyday conversation and not typically used in formal writing. Choose 'backward' in American English for similar meaning.

Frequently asked questions: Backward vs Backwards

What's the difference between "Backward" and "Backwards"?

"Backward" means: Going in the direction opposite to where you are facing. "Backwards" means: In the direction that is opposite to the front.

When should I use "Backward" and "Backwards"?

They can all be used in everyday English.

Are "Backward" and "Backwards" the same CEFR level?

"Backward" is at B1, "Backwards" is at B1 on the CEFR scale.