Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
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.

This works in a stock’s favor if the share price is rising; it can also quickly backfire if the stock price begins to fall.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 23, 2026

The practice worked in Uncle Sam’s favor, as the Fed lowered its short-term interest rate target by 1.75 percentage points in 2024 and 2025, but it may backfire if the central bank starts hiking.

From Barron's • May 22, 2026

But further destabilising the island could backfire on the US, said LeoGrande, who wrote the book Back Channel to Cuba: The Hidden History of Negotiations between Washington and Havana.

From BBC • May 16, 2026

Holding one of these ETFs for a long period could backfire, although it has worked out well recently.

From MarketWatch • May 1, 2026

“Er,” said Harry into the sudden silence; he had not expected his plan to backfire like this, “shall...shall we go up to the party, then?”

From "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" by J.K. Rowling




Vocabulary lists containing backfire


Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "backfire" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com