Synonyms for
Backward
Definition
directed or facing toward the back or rear; reluctant to progress, move forward, or adapt; reversed in direction, order, or nature
Synonyms & similar words
Synonyms by register
Formal
Informal
Antonyms
Common collocations
- backward glance
- backward step
- backward thinking
- backward compatibility
- backward and forward
- backward integration
- backward motion
Word family
noun backwardness
adverb backward
Usage note
Often used to describe movement or direction, but can also refer to development or progress. Be mindful of its potentially negative connotations when discussing social or intellectual matters.
Example sentences
- He stumbled backward and fell on the floor.
- The turtle moved backward into its shell.
- The team took a step backward in the championship race.
- She didn't want to appear backward in front of her new classmates.
- The teacher had to go backward to explain the concept to the student.
Quotes
A step backward, after making a wrong turn, is a step in the right direction.
It's better to take a backward step and move forward than to take a forward step and go backward.
Sometimes, taking a step backward can actually be a step forward in life.