"backpedalling" Pronounce,Meaning And Examples
"backpedalling" Natural Recordings by Native Speakers
"backpedalling" Meaning
"Backpedalling" refers to the act of reversing or retracting a previous statement or position, often due to criticism, new information, or to avoid conflict. It can also imply not following through with a commitment or changing one's stance on an issue. The term comes from the action of pedalling backwards on a bicycle, which causes the rider to slow down or move in the opposite direction. In a figurative sense, it means stepping back from a previously assertive or committed position.
"backpedalling" Examples
1. Politics: After initially supporting the tax hike, the senator found himself backpedalling when faced with strong public opposition.
"The senator backpedalled on his support for the tax hike, stating he needed to reconsider its impact on constituents."
2. Business: The company's CEO had to backpedal on their ambitious expansion plans due to unforeseen financial challenges.
"In light of the economic downturn, the CEO backpedalled on opening new branches, focusing instead on stabilizing existing operations."
3. Sports: The athlete, realizing he was too far ahead, started backpedalling to stay within the coach's recommended pace.
"As the marathon neared its halfway point, John backpedalled on his initial burst of speed to conserve energy for the remaining miles."
4. Personal Relationships: Jane backpedalled from her earlier argument, acknowledging that she might have overreacted.
"Jane backpedalled on her harsh words, apologizing and admitting she didn't fully understand the situation."
5. Environment: The city council backpedalled on approving a new coal power plant after environmental activists raised concerns about its impact.
"Faced with mounting pressure, the city council backpedalled and decided to explore renewable energy alternatives instead of approving the coal power plant."
"backpedalling" Similar Words
Backpacked
"Backpacked" is the past tense of the verb "backpack." It means to have carried a backpack while traveling, hiking, or moving around, typically for an extended period or over a distance. It often implies a sense of adventure, simplicity, or budget travel where one carries all their necessary items on their back.
Backpacker
A backpacker is a person who travels, often for extended periods, carrying all their necessary items in a backpack. This type of traveler typically seeks budget-friendly accommodations, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. Backpackers often explore off-the-beaten-path destinations and engage in activities like hiking, camping, or volunteering while immersing themselves in local cultures.
Backpackers
Backpackers refer to people who travel with a backpack as their primary luggage, typically engaging in budget or adventure travel. They often stay in hostels, camp, or use affordable accommodations while exploring different destinations, seeking cultural experiences and outdoor activities. Backpackers are known for their lightweight and minimalist approach to traveling, focusing on flexibility, independence, and immersive experiences rather than luxury or structured tours.
Backpacking
Backpacking refers to the activity of traveling with a backpack, typically for an extended period, often involving hiking and staying in budget accommodations such as hostels or camping. It is a form of low-cost, independent travel where individuals or groups carry their own gear and belongings on their backs, allowing them to explore and experience different places and cultures more intimately. Backpacking can be done domestically or internationally and is popular among adventurers, students, and those seeking cultural immersion and personal growth.
Backpacks
Backpacks are a type of bag that is worn on one's back, typically with straps that go over both shoulders, allowing for even distribution of weight and hands-free carrying. They are commonly used to carry items such as books, clothing, or supplies for school, travel, hiking, or other outdoor activities. Backpacks come in various sizes, designs, and materials to suit different needs and preferences.
Backpedal
To backpedal means to reverse or retract a previous statement, position, or action, often due to changed circumstances, new information, or to avoid conflict. It implies going against one's earlier commitment or opinion, usually in a hurried or awkward manner.
Backpedaled
"Backpedaled" means to reverse or retreat from a previous statement, position, or action, often due to criticism, new information, or changing circumstances. It usually implies that someone is trying to distance themselves from a previous commitment or opinion they had previously held or expressed.
Backpedaling
"Backpedaling" refers to the act of reversing or retracting a previous statement, position, or commitment, often due to criticism, pressure, or a change in circumstances. It usually implies that someone is trying to distance themselves from a previous stance they had taken.
Backrest
Backrests
Backronym
Backroom
Backrub
Backrubs
Backs
Backscattered