few steps backwards

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "few steps backwards" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where progress is temporarily reversed or where one is reconsidering previous decisions or actions. Example: "In order to find a better solution, we may need to take a few steps backwards and reassess our strategy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

"People are very disappointed that, so soon after the debate seemed to be moving forward on immigration, it has taken a few steps backwards," Ms. Blanco said.

The New York Times

Olaf Blanke of Ecole Polytechique Fédérale de Lausanne carried out a similar experiment but added another exercise after the virtual reality section, blindfolding the volunteers and guiding them a few steps backwards.

The Guardian

At times that leads to taking a few steps backwards in trying to change things that you're doing and unfortunately it's just been a bit of a stale run.

The Guardian - Sport

While Kaymer has indeed proceeded to leap forward this year (the USPGA champion's eight-shot win in Abu Dhabi three weeks ago was, dare we say, "Tigeresque") Westwood's game has seemingly taken a few steps backwards – 64th in Abu Dhabi, missed cut in Qatar last week.

Independent

"That doesn't mean we won't have a few steps backwards and some poor results.

BBC

It feels a little bit like we have taken a few steps backwards, although cycling has progressed.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Take a few steps back.

WikiHow

The jaunty pacing somehow feels as if the track is taking a quick hop backwards every few steps, like a sticky-footed dancer moving through a crackling field of tape hisses and crunchy drums.

Vice

There are few industries whose evolution includes dramatic steps backwards, but that's exactly what happened in commercial aviation and its experiments in supersonic flight.

TechCrunch

I watch the hind's moist nostrils flare slightly in tune with the deep swelling of her chest, and then she actually trots forward a few steps, so that we instinctively take a corresponding number backwards.

The Guardian

"These are steps backwards".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "few steps backwards" when you want to convey a temporary setback or a minor regression in an ongoing process. Ensure the context clearly indicates that the progress isn't completely halted, but rather experiencing a slight reverse.

Common error

Avoid using "few steps backwards" when the situation involves a complete failure or a major collapse. The phrase implies a limited setback, not a total loss of progress.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "few steps backwards" functions as a descriptor of a situation where progress is not linear, but experiences minor setbacks. As Ludwig AI explains, it's usable in written English to describe a slight regression.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "few steps backwards" is a grammatically correct and usable expression in English that describes a minor setback or temporary regression in progress. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness, and examples from reliable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian demonstrate its common usage in news and general contexts. When employing this phrase, it's important to ensure the context aligns with its meaning of a limited setback, rather than a total collapse. Alternatives like "minor setback" or "slight regression" can also be considered depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. The phrase is versatile enough for both formal and informal writing, provided the context accurately reflects a temporary dip in progress.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor setback

Emphasizes the hindering aspect of progress being stalled.

a bit of a retreat

Emphasizes the act of withdrawing from a position or decision.

slight regression

Focuses on the regression aspect but is more concise.

a touch of regression

Emphasizes the regression aspect with a slight degree.

slight reversal

Focuses on the change of direction or a turnaround.

little backsliding

Highlights the act of reverting to a less desirable behavior or state.

small decline

Highlights a downward trend or decrease.

brief downturn

Implies a short-term negative change or dip.

temporary relapse

Suggests a return to a previous, less desirable state.

shortcoming

Highlights that there is a problem, a limitation or defect.

FAQs

How can I use "few steps backwards" in a sentence?

You can use "few steps backwards" to describe a temporary setback or regression. For example, "The project seemed to be progressing well, but recent issues represent a "few steps backwards".".

What is a synonym for "few steps backwards"?

Synonyms for "few steps backwards" include "minor setback", "slight regression", or "small decline". Choose the synonym that best fits the context of your writing.

Is it appropriate to use "few steps backwards" in formal writing?

Yes, "few steps backwards" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when discussing project management, strategic planning, or any context where progress is being evaluated. It provides a clear and concise way to describe temporary setbacks.

What's the difference between "few steps backwards" and "major setback"?

"Few steps backwards" implies a minor and potentially temporary regression, while "major setback" suggests a significant obstacle that substantially delays or hinders progress. The choice depends on the severity of the situation.