backward

USAGE SUMMARY

The word “backward” is correct and usable in written English.
It is used either as an adverb to describe someone or something going in the opposite direction (i.e. backward) or as an adjective to describe something which is behind or out of date. For example: "The children ran backward and forward along the beach."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But more of his counterparts seem to view restoring the rule as a step backward.

The New York Times

The first ball of Flintoff's next over yielded eight – a hip-high full toss which was deposited over backward square-leg by Varun Chopra for six.

The Guardian - Sport

"We're going backward in a field that is supposed to be all about moving forward".

The Guardian

He hits a mighty ball, often with a low trajectory, some of his sixes simply muscled over the boundary: he too hit only seven fours but he struck four sixes besides in an innings of only 84 balls, the most remarkable six coming when somehow, from on one knee, he flayed Dwayne Bravo over the boundary backward of square on the offside.

The Guardian - Sport

Asked what the Fed will do, she points backward to what the Fed has done and to its explanations of why.

The Guardian - Business

Ukraine, and other post-Soviet states such as Georgia, are going in the same backward direction, he believes.

The Guardian

Also, many African professionals in Europe I have spoken to get exhausted by constantly being underestimated in their workplaces because it is assumed that since they grew up and went to school in a poor, backward environment (as many presume all of Africa is), they can't know terribly much after all.

The Guardian - Opinion

The young opener's predilection for the late cut was soon spotted by McCullum and, at one stage, New Zealand had four fielders within a few yards of each other around the backward point area.

The Guardian - Sport

What we have here is that the Syrian army would occupy two or three buildings in Khalidiya district, the FSA would come and fight them and get these buildings back and push the Syrian army backward.

The Guardian

"I think it's a bit of a step backward".

The Guardian

Had Obama held a press conference, all the questions would have backward looking, about the election result, and got in the way of the message on the fiscal cliff.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "backward" to describe cultural or societal progress, be mindful of the potentially negative connotations and consider alternative phrasing to avoid unintended offense. For example, instead of saying "a backward society", you might say "a society with different priorities".

Common error

Avoid using "backward" solely for literal directional movement when a more precise term like "backwards" or "in reverse" would be clearer. Overusing "backward" can create ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The word "backward" functions primarily as an adverb modifying verbs or as an adjective describing nouns. Ludwig provides examples where it indicates direction, state, or condition, fitting with its usage as illustrated by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Formal & Business

29%

Science

29%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "backward" is a versatile word, functioning as both an adjective and an adverb. It signifies movement towards the rear, regression, or outdated status. According to Ludwig, its use is grammatically correct and common across diverse contexts, including news, business, and general discourse. However, its implications, especially when describing societal progress, should be carefully considered to avoid unintended offense. Related phrases like "backwards", "retrogressing", and "outdated" offer nuances that can enhance precision. While "backward" is generally acceptable, ensuring clarity and avoiding overly broad or figurative use can help refine your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

backwards

This is a direct synonym, often interchangeable with "backward", though "backward" can sometimes carry a more figurative meaning.

in reverse

This phrase emphasizes the action of moving or operating in the opposite direction.

retrogressing

This term highlights a return to a previous, often less developed, state.

declining

Suggests a movement from a better to a worse condition or state.

regressing

Focuses on returning to a former state, especially a less developed one.

antiquated

Specifically indicates something outdated or old-fashioned.

old-fashioned

Similar to antiquated, but can also describe attitudes or beliefs.

behind the times

Indicates a lack of awareness or acceptance of current trends.

outdated

This term simply implies that something is no longer current or useful.

in the past

This phrase refers to a time before the present, emphasizing a return to previous conditions.

FAQs

How can I use "backward" in a sentence?

You can use "backward" as an adverb, such as "He walked "backward" down the street", or as an adjective, such as "The country made a "backward" step in environmental policy".

What are some alternatives to the word "backward"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "retrograde", "regressive", "backwards", or "outdated".

Is there a difference between "backward" and "backwards"?

While often interchangeable, "backward" is more commonly used in a figurative sense, while "backwards" is more frequently used to describe literal movement. For example, "a "backward" policy" versus "he walked "backwards"".

When is it appropriate to use "backward" instead of "regressive"?

"Backward" can imply a broader sense of being behind or undeveloped, while "regressive" specifically suggests a return to a less advanced state. Use "backward" when referring to a general lack of progress and "regressive" when referring to reversing progress.