backward
Pronunciation: [ˈbækwərd]
Context: “movement”
(adjective) when someone or something is moving in the direction behind them. It's like walking or looking behind instead of forward.
Example
She walked backward to see how far she could go without looking.
Example
He didn't want to walk backward because he was afraid he might trip.
Example
Can you walk backward without looking where you're going?
Context: “progress”
(adjective) when something is not progressing or developing in a positive way. It's like a situation that is going in the wrong direction.
Example
The team made backward progress but learned from their mistakes.
Example
The project is not backward; it is moving forward successfully.
Example
Why do you think some cultures might be seen as backward?
Context: “movement”
(adverb) how someone is moving in the direction behind them. Like saying you're going backward instead of forward.
Example
He cautiously moved backward to avoid stepping on the cat.
Example
She did not want to move backward during the dance; she wanted to face her partner.
Example
Why would you move backward instead of forward?
Context: “opinion”
(adjective) when someone has beliefs that are considered old-fashioned or not in line with modern ideas. It's like thinking about things in a way that is not up-to-date.
Example
His views on technology are backward; he prefers traditional ways.
Example
Her ideas are not backward; they are very modern and innovative.
Example
What do you mean when you say someone has backward beliefs?