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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.

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

From MarketWatch • May 1, 2026

Then again, Patel’s entire stint at the FBI suggests he doesn’t understand that all his efforts to manifest an image of a smart, cool guy that everyone likes are so ham-fisted that they inevitably backfire.

From Salon • Apr. 24, 2026

In some cases, letting your spouse take care of the finances can backfire.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 19, 2026

But that can backfire when the hype does not match the performance - though the loss to the Cherries was just the second home league defeat of the season.

From BBC • Apr. 18, 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




Vocabulary lists containing backfire