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

Limiting APRs would backfire and curb credit lines and credit-card rewards for millions, people in the banking industry cautioned.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 19, 2026

“Many presidents wouldn’t have that tone for personal moral reasons,” Rowland said, “but they also know that it can backfire when things don’t go well.”

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 15, 2026

He was complacent and insecure, daring in the administrative stratagems he employed to bring himself to the attention of his superiors and craven in his concern that his schemes might all backfire.

From "Catch-22" by Joseph Heller