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Definitions

backfire

[bak-fahyuhr] / ˈbækˌfaɪər /


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.

But that can backfire when the hype does not match the performance - though the loss to the Cherries was just the second home league defeat of the season.

From BBC • Apr. 18, 2026

Their concern: Price controls and export restrictions could backfire with rationing and spillover to other countries.

From Barron's • Apr. 14, 2026

Once someone has formed an opinion, debunking their belief can backfire, driving them to commit even more strongly to their mistake.

From Salon • Apr. 13, 2026

“You only have so many tries” suggests his attempts to help could backfire; that language is inflammatory and shaming at worst and unhelpful at best.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 27, 2026

But almost immediately, the Berlin Wall began to backfire on Khrushchev.

From "Fallout: Spies, Superbombs, and the Ultimate Cold War Showdown" by Steve Sheinkin




Vocabulary lists containing backfire