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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.

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

It’s a move that could backfire for the artificial-intelligence start-up.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 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

“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

Then he would sit and brood for hours while Mary frantically built up a backfire of gaiety.

From "Cannery Row" by John Steinbeck




Vocabulary lists containing backfire