backlash

USAGE SUMMARY

"backlash" is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to describe a strong reaction against an event, opinion, or policy, usually one in the form of criticism or opposition. Example sentence: "The president's controversial decision to increase taxes triggered a major backlash from both the public and elected officials."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In their minds they did the right thing," the relative replied, adding that the subsequent backlash hurt the officers "more than anything".

The Guardian

Fealy said the incident was a "glaring example" of the backlash that can occur as a result of a few frustrated remarks.

The Guardian

Tony Abbott has sought to play down the backlash over Australia's decision to refer to East Jerusalem as "disputed" rather than "occupied" territory, saying the government had made only a "terminological clarification".

The Guardian

This absence is at least partially explained by the thorough discrediting of nationalism after nazism and the fact that, unlike further east, communist elites did not become corrupt nouveaux riches (and therefore the subject of a rightwing backlash, as in Hungary, for instance).

The Guardian - Opinion

Malik was told about the social media backlash against her by a show producer after her own exit from the house.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Like Alexander, celebrity stylist Gray thinks any backlash against men's short-shorts is really about gender and even anxiety around the accuser's sexuality.

The Guardian - Opinion

The comments, and the backlash against them, illustrate how a tormented racial history dating back centuries is in constant tension with the aspiration of a "rainbow nation".

The Guardian

Media regulator Ofcom has launched an investigation into whether the BBC took due care of the welfare of the child because he was identifiable and his remarks could cause a backlash.

The Guardian

The backlash was led by Michael Howard, whose 1993 slogan "prison works" marked a tougher attitude towards crime and punishment that continued through Labour's years in power.

The Guardian

The extent of Farage's ambitions came to light as Lib Dem leader Nick Clegg faced a serious backlash from party malcontents, including at least two parliamentary candidates and several prominent councillors, as activists gathered names on a petition demanding he be replaced immediately by a new leader.

The Guardian

In a speech in Brussels on Tuesday, the SNP leader spoke of a "groundswell of anger" and a "strong backlash" if Scotland were to be taken out of the EU by a UK-wide referendum.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "backlash", ensure the context clearly indicates what action or event triggered the negative reaction. For example, "The policy change triggered a significant "backlash" from employees".

Common error

Don't use "backlash" to describe minor disagreements or mild criticism. "Backlash" implies a strong, often widespread negative reaction. Use terms like "disagreement" or "criticism" for less intense situations.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "backlash" is as a noun, typically referring to a strong and adverse reaction by a considerable number of people against a recent development or trend, as exemplified in Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "backlash" is a frequently used noun denoting a strong, adverse reaction, commonly observed in News & Media contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability for describing significant negative sentiment. Related phrases include "negative reaction" and "public outcry", though these may vary slightly in intensity. When employing "backlash", ensure that the context clearly indicates the trigger for the reaction. While "backlash" is versatile, avoid using it to depict trivial disagreements. High-authority sources consistently utilize this term, solidifying its established meaning and widespread acceptance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

negative reaction

Focuses on the reaction itself, without necessarily implying a strong or forceful response as "backlash" does.

adverse response

Similar to "negative reaction" but slightly more formal and emphasizes the opposing nature of the response.

public outcry

Specifically refers to a strong expression of public disapproval or anger, often more vocal than a general "backlash".

negative repercussions

Highlights the consequences that follow an action, where "backlash" emphasizes the reaction to the action itself.

unfavorable consequences

Similar to "negative repercussions", focusing on the resulting effects rather than the immediate reaction.

hostile response

Emphasizes the antagonistic nature of the reaction, which may not always be present in a "backlash".

fierce opposition

Focuses on active resistance and disagreement, implying a more direct confrontation than a general "backlash".

strong resistance

Similar to "fierce opposition", highlighting the strength of the opposing force.

adverse effect

Highlights the damaging impact resulting from something, while "backlash" refers to the reaction itself.

unwanted consequence

Focuses on the undesired outcome rather than the reactive element of "backlash".

FAQs

How is "backlash" commonly used in a sentence?

"Backlash" is typically used to describe a strong, negative reaction to a policy, decision, or event. For example, "The company faced a "backlash" after announcing the layoffs."

What are some synonyms for "backlash"?

Alternatives to "backlash" include "negative reaction", "public outcry", or "adverse response" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "backlash" in a formal setting?

Yes, "backlash" is appropriate in formal settings, particularly when discussing public opinion, political reactions, or the consequences of corporate decisions.

What's the difference between "backlash" and "criticism"?

"Backlash" implies a stronger and more widespread negative reaction than simple "criticism". Criticism can be individual or isolated, while a "backlash" involves a more collective and forceful response.