OpenSynonym

backfires

/ˈbækˌfaɪrz/

NOUN

1. A controlled fire used to stop a larger wildfire

A small, deliberately set fire used in wildfire management to remove combustible material and prevent a larger uncontrolled fire from spreading.

1.1. Fire control and wildfire management

Refers to controlled fires intentionally created as a defensive measure to reduce available fuel and contain an approaching wildfire.

Synonyms

  • controlled burns
  • prescribed burns
  • burn lines

Examples

  • Firefighters established backfires to protect the nearby community from the advancing wildfire.
  • The backfires helped remove dry vegetation before the main fire reached the area.

Related Words

  • wildfires
  • brush fires
  • forest fires
  • firebreaks
  • fire suppression
  • combustible material

NOUN

2. An explosion or abnormal combustion in an engine

An unintended explosion caused by premature ignition or the ignition of unburned fuel in the intake or exhaust system of an internal combustion engine.

2.1. Engine exhaust explosions

Refers to explosive combustion in an engine's exhaust system, often producing a loud popping or banging sound.

Synonyms

  • afterfires
  • exhaust explosions

Examples

  • The motorcycle produced several loud backfires when the rider released the throttle.
  • Faulty fuel combustion caused repeated backfires in the vehicle's exhaust system.

Related Words

  • combustion
  • ignition
  • exhaust
  • fuel
  • engine
  • misfire

2.2. Premature engine ignition

Refers to abnormal combustion occurring at the wrong point in an engine cycle, potentially causing pressure to act against the normal direction of piston movement.

Synonyms

  • premature ignition
  • engine misfires

Examples

  • The mechanic investigated the engine backfires caused by abnormal ignition timing.
  • Repeated backfires indicated a possible problem with the engine's combustion process.

Related Words

  • compression stroke
  • exhaust stroke
  • cylinder
  • piston
  • spark plug
  • combustion chamber

VERB

3. To fail and cause further misfortune

To produce an unintended negative result or cause additional problems instead of achieving the intended outcome.

3.1. Plans and actions producing negative consequences

Describes an attempt, strategy, statement, or decision that has the opposite effect from what was intended and creates difficulties for the person responsible.

Synonyms

Antonyms

  • succeed
  • flourish
  • prosper
  • thrive

Examples

  • Attempting to undermine the project only backfires and damages team morale.
  • The plan to exploit a loophole backfires when the authorities discover it.
  • Spreading false rumors about competitors often backfires and damages a company's credibility.
  • Offering unsolicited advice sometimes backfires and strains personal relationships.

Related Words