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.
But Lee's conservative approach backfired as DeChambeau rescued a par five.
From BBC
“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
This strategy "will backfire for specific audiences, particularly Westerners and others from democracies who are used to having freedom of expression," said Bohl.
From Barron's
Sullivan warned that changes to VA policy that take decision-making out of veterans’ control is a risk that could seriously backfiring.
From Salon
That volatility can backfire when things go wrong.
From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.