backwards

word · lemma: backward

/ˈbækwɝdz/
BAK-wurdz
/bˈækwədz/
BAK-wuhdz

Definition

In a direction toward the back, or in reverse order or the wrong way around. It can describe movement, position, or something arranged opposite to the usual direction.

Usage & Nuances

Common with verbs of movement: 'walk backwards', 'lean backwards'. Also used for wrong orientation: 'Your shirt is backwards.' In everyday speech, 'backward' and 'backwards' are often both possible, but 'backwards' is especially common as an adverb.

Example Sentences

The boy took two steps backwards.

basic

You are wearing your T-shirt backwards.

basic

She read the word backwards.

basic

Don’t lean too far backwards in that chair.

natural

I had the numbers backwards, so I went to the wrong address.

natural

When I watched the video backwards, it looked really weird.

natural