it can backfire

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it can backfire" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a situation where an action or decision may have unintended negative consequences. Example: "While trying to save money by cutting corners, it can backfire and lead to more expenses in the long run."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Assimilation may happen on its own, but enforcing it can backfire.

The New York Times

It can backfire.

BBC

It can backfire on you.

The New York Times

It can backfire on the Badgers, too.

The New York Times - Sports

But it can backfire if you don't.

Harvard Business Review

It can backfire without two other critical traits.

Harvard Business Review

But it can backfire when people become defensive.

Harvard Business Review

But it doesn't get you much past that, and as we've already seen, it can backfire.

The New Yorker

And though Suitsupply emphasizes details meant to drive bloggers crazy, it can backfire.

The New York Times

"But if you make too many demands on the Pakistanis in public, it can backfire".

The New York Times

It can backfire if either side is perceived as dragging this out".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it can backfire", ensure the context clearly indicates what "it" refers to, avoiding ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying "Implementing this new policy can backfire", specify: "Implementing this new policy without proper training can backfire."

Common error

Avoid using "it can backfire" as a generic warning without explaining the potential negative outcomes. Always provide specific reasons why the action might lead to undesirable results to make the statement more impactful and informative.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it can backfire" functions as an independent clause expressing a potential negative outcome or consequence. It serves as a warning or cautionary statement. As Ludwig AI shows, this phrase is commonly used across various contexts to highlight the risk of unintended negative results from a particular action or decision.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Academia

19%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it can backfire" serves as a cautionary statement highlighting the potential for unintended negative consequences. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, including news, academia, and formal business settings. While generally neutral in register, it's advisable to provide specific context to avoid vagueness. Consider alternatives like "it could have negative consequences" for more formal situations. By understanding its function and usage patterns, writers can effectively warn against potential risks and encourage more thoughtful decision-making.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it could have negative consequences

Focuses on the potential for adverse effects, emphasizing the outcome rather than the action.

it might prove counterproductive

Highlights the potential for the action to work against its intended purpose.

it may produce unintended results

Emphasizes the unexpected nature of the outcome, suggesting a deviation from the plan.

it runs the risk of failing

Highlights the inherent risk involved, suggesting a possibility of not achieving the desired outcome.

it could blow up in your face

An idiomatic expression implying a sudden and dramatic failure with personal repercussions.

it could come back to bite you

Suggests that a past action could cause problems in the future.

it might not pan out as expected

Focuses on the potential difference between the planned and actual outcomes.

it may not go according to plan

Similar to the previous phrase, but more general, highlighting deviation from a pre-set plan.

it could create more problems than it solves

Emphasizes that negative aspects are greater than positive ones.

the plan might misfire

Draws parallel with a mechanical error that affects the end-result.

FAQs

How can I use "it can backfire" in a sentence?

You can use "it can backfire" to warn about potential negative consequences of an action. For example, "Trying to rush the project "it can backfire" and lead to errors."

What are some alternatives to saying "it can backfire"?

Alternatives include "it could have negative consequences", "it might prove counterproductive", or "it may produce unintended results", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it can backfire" too informal for professional writing?

While "it can backfire" is generally acceptable, more formal options like "it could have negative consequences" or "it might prove counterproductive" may be preferred in highly formal contexts.

What's the difference between "it can backfire" and "it might fail"?

"It can backfire" implies that the action not only fails but also produces unintended negative effects, while "it might fail" simply suggests a lack of success without necessarily causing additional problems.