B1adverb2K

UK/["/ˈbækwədz/"]/US/["/ˈbækwərdz/"]/

Meaning of Backwards

towards a place or position that is behind

In simple words: In the direction that is opposite to the front.

Backwards in a sentence

  • He walked backwards to avoid stepping on the slippery ground.
  • The car was moving backwards, making it difficult for the driver to see the road.
  • She couldn't help but think of her life going backwards after the breakup.
  • When writing the essay, he realized he had developed his ideas backwards.

How to use Backwards

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.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective/adverb

Memory hint

Think of walking 'back' to the 'wards' of your previous spot.

Related words

Collocations with Backwards

  • move backwards
  • look backwards
  • step backwards

Synonyms for Backwards

Opposites of Backwards

Common mistakes with Backwards

  • Confused with 'backward' — check if regional variation applies.
  • Incorrectly used in contexts where 'reverse' is more appropriate.
  • Mispronounced as 'back-wards' instead of 'back-werdz'.

Backwards appears in

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Frequently asked questions about Backwards

What does Backwards mean?

In the direction that is opposite to the front.

What is the definition of Backwards?

towards a place or position that is behind

How do you use Backwards in a sentence?

He walked backwards to avoid stepping on the slippery ground.

Can you give another example of Backwards?

The car was moving backwards, making it difficult for the driver to see the road.

What are synonyms for Backwards?

Common alternatives include backward, rearward, in reverse.

What is the opposite of Backwards?

Opposite meanings include forwards, ahead.

What words go with Backwards?

It commonly pairs with move backwards, look backwards, step backwards.

What are common mistakes when using Backwards?

Confused with 'backward' — check if regional variation applies. Incorrectly used in contexts where 'reverse' is more appropriate. Mispronounced as 'back-wards' instead of 'back-werdz'.

How do you pronounce Backwards?

US: /["/ˈbækwərdz/"]/, UK: /["/ˈbækwədz/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Backwards?

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.

What CEFR level is Backwards?

"Backwards" is at B1 level on the CEFR scale.