definitely going backward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "definitely going backward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or progress that is regressing or deteriorating rather than improving. Example: "The recent changes in policy are definitely going backward in terms of employee satisfaction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

For Isner, not going forward is definitely going backward.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

DEFINITELY going back.

Huffington Post

"I'll definitely go back.

The New York Times - Sports

I will definitely go back.

The New Yorker

I would definitely go back.

The New York Times

Are we going backward?

The New York Times

Atlanta is going backward.

The Washington Post

"She's not going backward.

The New York Times - Sports

"They're going backward".

The New York Times

Roth went forward artistically by going backward.

The New Yorker

Are reforms still going backward?

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "definitely going backward", ensure that the context clearly establishes what is regressing and why. This provides clarity and strengthens the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using multiple intensifiers with "definitely going backward", as this can make the writing sound hyperbolic. For example, phrases like "absolutely definitely going backward" are often redundant and weaken the impact of the statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "definitely going backward" functions as a verb phrase indicating a process of regression or decline. The adverb "definitely" intensifies the action, emphasizing the certainty of the backward movement, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "definitely going backward" is a grammatically sound verb phrase used to express a strong sense of regression or decline. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, its usage is relatively rare, primarily found in News & Media contexts. For more formal situations, consider alternatives like "clearly regressing" or "undoubtedly deteriorating". Remember to ensure that the context provides a clear understanding of what is regressing to enhance clarity and impact when using "definitely going backward".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clearly regressing

Emphasizes the regression aspect, using a stronger adjective.

undoubtedly deteriorating

Focuses on the decline in quality or condition, using "undoubtedly" for emphasis.

certainly declining

Highlights the decline with certainty.

unquestionably worsening

Stresses the worsening condition without a doubt.

positively retrogressing

Uses the more formal term "retrogressing" to indicate a return to a former state.

assuredly slipping

Indicates a gradual decline or loss of position.

indisputably backsliding

Uses "backsliding" to suggest a relapse into bad habits or a worse state.

plainly falling behind

Focuses on the aspect of lagging or failing to keep pace.

undeniably receding

Implies a retreat or withdrawal, emphasizing the loss of progress.

absolutely reversing

Highlights a complete turnaround and movement in the opposite direction.

FAQs

How can I use "definitely going backward" in a sentence?

You can use "definitely going backward" to describe a situation or trend that is regressing or deteriorating. For example: "The company's profits are "definitely going backward" this quarter."

What can I say instead of "definitely going backward"?

Alternatives include "clearly regressing", "undoubtedly deteriorating", or "certainly declining" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "definitely going backward"?

Yes, "definitely going backward" is grammatically correct and understandable, as it follows standard English syntax for combining an adverb with a verb phrase. Ludwig AI confirms this.

What's the difference between "going backward" and "definitely going backward"?

Adding "definitely" emphasizes the certainty or strength of the regression. While "going backward" simply indicates a decline, ""definitely going backward"" asserts it with conviction.