backfire

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Greek authorities have strongly opposed vaccination, arguing that the antibodies they create can backfire by giving false signals of infection.

From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026

The pressure is now on CEO Vinai Venkatesham - previously at Arsenal - sporting director Johan Lange, and the Lewis family, who are over-seeing affairs, as the gamble of Tudor's appointment continues to backfire.

From BBC • Mar. 24, 2026

But such a strategy could ultimately backfire, Marko Kolanovic, a former top strategist at J.P.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 23, 2026

It’s true that forced treatment doesn’t always get the desired outcome, and can backfire if it makes the person more resistant to treatment.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 21, 2026

And anyhow, I thought, tattling to his mom would probably backfire.

From "Maybe He Just Likes You" by Barbara Dee