far backward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "far backward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is significantly behind in time, progress, or development. Example: "The technology in this region is far backward compared to the advancements seen in urban areas."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

With the center of gravity pushed too far backward, the nose rose too high for the plane to fly.

The New York Times

Indeed, the pendulum swung so far backward that financial markets were left dangerously unregulated prior to the financial crisis.

The New York Times - Books

While balanced on her head, her neck bent far backward, the woman "suddenly felt a severe throbbing headache".

The New York Times - Magazine

Shot from below, the suited man in the image has flung his neck so far backward that he appears headless.

The New York Times

"You can bend over as far backward as you'd like to create a system to police that.

The New York Times

When it has erred, it has mainly been by bending over too far backward for the private sector.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

He quotes earlier writers (one a hero of Conrad's) who were far less backward.

The New York Times - Books

Yet for all Germany's possession, Ukraine were far from backward in coming forward.

The Guardian - Sport

Qatar is far from backward: Doha-based al-Jazeera's boldness in criticising its neighbours is testament to that, even accounting for recent WikiLeaks revelations.

The Guardian - Opinion

There are two full USB 3 ports here, which is good news as far as backward compatibility with older accessories.

TechCrunch

But British Environment Secretary Caroline Spelman said she was worried that the Commission's proposals "will be far too backward-looking and this precious opportunity will be lost".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "far backward" to emphasize a significant degree of regression or movement in the opposite direction, whether in a literal or figurative sense. For example, "The company's profits have fallen far backward this quarter."

Common error

Avoid using "far backward" in contexts where a more precise or technical term would be more appropriate. For example, in scientific writing, consider using terms like "reversed" or "regressed" for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "far backward" primarily functions as an adverbial modifier, intensifying the degree to which something moves or is situated in reverse or in the past. As Ludwig explains, the phrase is correct and can be used to describe something significantly behind.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "far backward" is grammatically sound and functions as an adverbial modifier, adding emphasis to a sense of regression or movement in reverse. According to Ludwig, this phrase is usable in written English to emphasize that something is significantly behind. Though not overly common, its use is distributed across various contexts, with a leaning toward News & Media. For enhanced precision in certain scientific or formal scenarios, consider alternatives such as "considerably regressed" or "substantially reversed". When using "far backward", be mindful of the context to ensure its figurative or literal application is appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significantly behind

Emphasizes the extent of being behind in progress or development.

considerably regressed

Focuses on the act of declining or returning to a previous state.

substantially reversed

Highlights a significant change in direction or policy.

markedly deteriorated

Stresses a notable decline in quality or condition.

noticeably declined

Indicates an easily observed decrease or reduction.

considerably distant

Focuses on the considerable separation or difference from a previous state.

substantially away

Highlights a significant degree of removal or separation.

distinctly remote

Emphasizes the clear and significant distance or separation.

clearly retracted

Focuses on the act of withdrawing or moving back explicitly.

plainly regressive

Highlights an easily observed tendency to return to a previous or less developed state.

FAQs

How can I use "far backward" in a sentence?

You can use "far backward" to describe a significant regression or movement in the opposite direction. For example, "The country's economy has moved "far backward" due to the recent political instability."

What are some alternatives to "far backward"?

Alternatives to "far backward" include "significantly behind", "considerably regressed", or "substantially reversed", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "far backward"?

"Far backward" is appropriate when emphasizing a considerable degree of regression or a substantial movement in the opposite direction. It's often used in contexts involving progress, development, or change.

What is the difference between "far backward" and "slightly backward"?

"Far backward" indicates a significant degree of regression or movement in the opposite direction, whereas "slightly backward" suggests a minimal or barely noticeable change. The choice depends on the extent of the regression you want to convey.