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Definitions

backtrack

[bak-trak] / ˈbækˌtræk /


VERB
retrace one's step
Synonyms


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.

Bozell appeared to later backtrack, saying the US government respected the independence and findings of South Africa's judiciary.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

The new ambassador appeared to later backtrack, saying the US government respected the independence and findings of South Africa's judiciary.

From Barron's • Mar. 26, 2026

“The President has this tendency to TACO,” he said, referring to Trump’s tendency to announce tough policies only to backtrack on those announcements later.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 6, 2026

In September, mere hours after Charlie Kirk was killed, Patel prematurely announced a suspect had been apprehended — only to have to backtrack when authorities had taken the wrong man into custody.

From Salon • Feb. 14, 2026

All I had to do to get home was backtrack, or keep going till I reached fields.

From "Black Swan Green" by David Mitchell