Definition of Backward
Quick Meaning of Backward
Directed toward the back or behind you. Moving in the opposite direction from where you were going.
Detailed Definition of Backward
Directed or turned toward the back or rear; moving toward a previous position in space or time.
How to Pronounce Backward
Stress pattern: Oo (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the first syllable: BAC-kward. Say 'bak-werd'. The 'w' is pronounced as in 'wet'.
Watch out: Some learners say 'back-WARD' (stress second syllable). Correct: BAC-kward (stress first syllable). The final syllable is unstressed.
Origin and Etymology of Backward
From Old English 'bæcweard' (back + -ward direction suffix). Related to 'back' and Germanic '-ward' meaning 'toward' or 'in the direction of'. Used in English since 13th century.
How to Use Backward in a Sentence
Each example shows “backward” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
-
“He took a backward step when he saw the danger ahead.”
-
“The car rolled backward down the slope.”
-
“She glanced backward over her shoulder before leaving the room.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Backward
Common Synonyms for Backward
Smart Synonyms for Backward — When to Use Each
- rear
- More formal; refers to the back part
- reverse
- Emphasizes opposite direction; suggests movement backwards
- retrograde
- Technical/formal; describes motion opposite to usual direction
Antonyms of Backward
Common Collocations with Backward
These phrases pair with “backward” in everyday English:
- backward step
- backward glance
- backward motion
- backward compatibility
- look backward
Common Mistakes When Using Backward
Even fluent speakers slip up with “backward”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: He moved backward forward.
- ✓ Correct: He moved backward. / He moved forward.
- Why: 'Backward' and 'forward' are opposites; use only one depending on direction.
- ✗ Wrong: The backward motion was very quickly.
- ✓ Correct: The backward motion was very quick. / The motion was backward very quickly.
- Why: Use 'quick' (adjective) with noun. Use 'quickly' (adverb) with verb.
- ✗ Wrong: She walked backward to the store.
- ✓ Correct: She walked to the store backward. / She walked backward.
- Why: Place 'backward' after verb or use alone; awkward to place before destination.
Words Confused With Backward
- Backward vs Backwards: 'Backward' (adj/adv in American English); 'backwards' (adv in British English and American English for direction)
Other Forms of Backward
- Adjective: backward
- Adverb: backward/backwards
Frequently Asked Questions About Backward
What is the meaning of "Backward"?
Directed toward the back or behind you. Moving in the opposite direction from where you were going.
How do you pronounce "Backward"?
The IPA is /ˈbækwərd/. Stress the first syllable: BAC-kward. Say 'bak-werd'. The 'w' is pronounced as in 'wet'.
What part of speech is "Backward"?
"Backward" is an adjective at B1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Backward"?
Common synonyms include rear, behind, back.
How do you use "Backward" in a sentence?
For example: "He took a backward step when he saw the danger ahead."