backfire
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈbækˌfaɪər/
KK: /ˈbækˌfaɪər/
intransitive verb
Definition
To have an unexpected or undesirable outcome, often as a result of one's actions or plans.
Example
His plan to impress her backfired when he accidentally spilled coffee on her.
Tense Forms
Past: backfired
Past Participle: backfired
Conversation
I thought the plan would work, but it might just backfire on us.
Really? What happened?
I underestimated how much time it would take, and now we're in trouble.
Wow, that could definitely backfire if we don't fix it quickly.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
misfire
fail
backlash
Antonyms
succeed
prosper
thrive
noun
Definition
A situation where a plan or action has the opposite effect of what was intended, often causing problems or failures.
Example
The new policy was meant to improve productivity, but it ended up being a backfire that confused the employees.
Conversation
Did you hear about that controlled burn they tried to do last week?
Yeah, I heard it ended up as a disaster!
Right? They said it was supposed to help but it ended up being a backfire.
Root Explanation
Backfire is formed from "back" (meaning in the opposite direction) and "fire" (from Old English "fyr", meaning flame or fire). The word describes a situation where a plan or action has the opposite effect of what was intended, akin to a fire that goes backward instead of forward.
Memory Tip
Think of something that goes 'in the opposite direction' ('back') and 'fire' that represents an action. This helps you remember that 'backfire' means an action that has an unintended, opposite effect.
Visually Confused Words
blackfire
blackie
bauckie