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.
In some cases, letting your spouse take care of the finances can backfire.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 19, 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
The NFL is taking proactive steps to limit the possibility of a work stoppage involving the referees’ union, but could the league’s plans backfire?
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026
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
“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
"Diary of a Wimpy Kid" by Jeff Kinney
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"Laws are not the only way to boost immunization”: an editorial from Nature
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Catching Fire
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