The meaning of BACKWARD is toward the back or rear. How to use backward in a sentence.

backward adjective (OPPOSITE DIRECTION) toward the direction that is the opposite to the one in which you are facing:

To summarize, backward is an adjective that characterizes something as reverse or regressive, whereas backwards is primarily used as an adverb to describe a motion done in reverse.

Aug 16, 2024 · “Backward” and “backwards” are often used interchangeably, but there are differences in their usage. “Backward” is commonly preferred in American English and can …

If someone takes a backward step, they do something that does not change or improve their situation, but causes them to go back a stage. He didn't want to take a backward step at this …

Aug 5, 2025 · The words “backward” and “backwards” both express a sense of reverse direction or movement, whether physical or metaphorical. Synonyms for these words include “behind,” …

While technically backwards is interchangeable with backward, the overwhelmingly preferred spelling in the United States is backward, whether it is used as an adjective or an adverb.

Is backwards a word? Learn how to use backwards and backward with definitions and sentence examples at Writing Explained.

Backward definition: toward the back or rear.. See examples of BACKWARD used in a sentence.

1. backward (s) and forward (s), in every detail; thoroughly. 2. bend, lean, or fall over backward, to exert oneself to the utmost; make a serious effort.