needs to backtrack

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "needs to backtrack" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when someone must reconsider or retract their previous statements or actions, often to correct a mistake or clarify a misunderstanding. Example: "After realizing the error in his calculations, he needs to backtrack and reassess his findings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

It appears Ben Affleck needs to backtrack on his previous statements about his back tattoo. .

Huffington Post

The actor previously claimed the colorful phoenix was "fake for a movie". It appears Ben Affleck needs to backtrack on his previous statements about his back tattoo.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Now I need to backtrack and learn to focus completely on the task at hand.

Harvard University

It would either need to backtrack on its previous statements that the straw poll results are final, or might risk appearing as though it was disenfranchising voters.

The New York Times

Besides, even if you choose not to go searching for bonus trinkets, you'll still need to build up a mental map of each level, as you'll often need to backtrack to previously unnavigable places once you've found the requisite keycard.

The Guardian - Tech

Since earlier data is reliable, there is no need to backtrack for this part.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

If they hesitate, you need to backtrack and figure out the source of their reluctance.

TechCrunch

If we are able to arrange the data according to its reliability, starting with the most reliable data, then there would be a less chance that we need to backtrack.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

And book-reading audiences love having the maximum number of options available to them as ebook subscription service Scribd proved when it needed to backtrack on its pivot away from a Netflix-style unlimited service.

Forbes

Unfortunately because TfL are so inept they've let it go on for such a long time and now we need to backtrack to actually put back in place how it should have been in the first place".

TechCrunch

I'd rather not have so many powers, or I'd rather I just found each one along the way (and then realize I needed to backtrack, explore, to find those places I couldn't reach before...) Ditto that for Tomb Raider or Far Cry 3---good games, but games that too often task me with the mundane things we associate with video games for no reason other than...they're video games.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "needs to backtrack" when someone must correct or retract a previous statement because it was inaccurate or misleading. It accurately conveys the idea of reversing course due to an error or change in circumstances.

Common error

Avoid using "needs to backtrack" in casual conversations. Simpler alternatives like "made a mistake" or "was wrong" can sound more natural and less accusatory in everyday interactions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "needs to backtrack" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating a requirement or necessity. It shows that someone is required to retract or revise a previous statement or action. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

17%

Science

16%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "needs to backtrack" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that signifies the requirement to retract or revise a previous statement or action. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is suitable for various contexts, but care should be taken to adjust formality levels as needed. It's predominantly found in News & Media sources and serves to convey the necessity of correcting or reversing a prior position. While simpler alternatives may be preferred in informal settings, "needs to backtrack" effectively communicates the need for revision in more formal or professional environments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Ought to backtrack on

A slightly more formal way of saying "needs to backtrack".

Must retract

Emphasizes the obligation to withdraw a statement.

Should reconsider

Suggests a recommendation to rethink a position.

Has to walk back

Implies a need to disavow or retreat from a previous action or statement.

Ought to revise

Indicates a requirement for amending or improving something previously stated.

Should backpedal

Conveys a sense of retreating from a previous commitment or statement.

Needs to take back

Highlights the act of withdrawing something that was said.

Must withdraw

Focuses on the necessity to remove or retract something.

Should disavow

Emphasizes the act of denying responsibility or support for something.

Has to recant

Implies a formal retraction or disavowal of a previous statement.

FAQs

How can I use "needs to backtrack" in a sentence?

You can use "needs to backtrack" to indicate that someone has to retract or revise a previous statement or action. For example, "After realizing the error in his calculations, he "needs to backtrack" and reassess his findings."

What does it mean when someone "needs to backtrack"?

When someone "needs to backtrack", it means they have to withdraw or revise something they previously said or did, usually because it was incorrect or based on flawed information.

What can I say instead of "needs to backtrack"?

You can use alternatives like "must retract", "should reconsider", or "has to walk back" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "needs to backtrack" in formal writing?

Yes, "needs to backtrack" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing corrections or revisions in plans or statements. However, consider using a more formal synonym like "ought to revise" for increased formality.