backpedaling
/ˈbækˌpɛdəlɪŋ/
VERB
1. To pedal backwards on a bicycle
To rotate the pedals of a bicycle in the reverse direction.
1.1. Reverse bicycle pedaling
Moving bicycle pedals backward rather than forward, typically to control the bicycle or operate a reverse-pedal braking mechanism.
Synonyms
- pedaling backward
- reversing the pedals
Antonyms
- pedaling forward
Related Words
- cycling
- bicycle
- braking
- pedals
VERB
2. To step backwards
To move one's feet or body backward, away from a position or person.
2.1. Physical backward movement
Moving backward by taking steps away from something or someone, often to create distance, avoid danger, or retreat from a position.
Synonyms
- stepping backward
- retreating
- receding
- withdrawing
- backing away
- falling back
Antonyms
- advancing
- approaching
- moving forward
Related Words
- recoiling
- giving ground
- retiring
- moving away
VERB
3. To distance oneself from an earlier claim or statement
To withdraw from or weaken a previously expressed claim, statement, opinion, or position, especially after facing criticism or opposition.
3.1. Retracting a previous statement
Taking back or publicly withdrawing something previously said or claimed, often because it has been challenged, criticized, or proven inaccurate.
Synonyms
- retracting
- recanting
- disavowing
- renouncing
- taking back
- unsaying
- repudiating
Antonyms
- reaffirming
- confirming
- maintaining
- standing by
Examples
- Backpedaling only worsened the situation as the truth became more apparent.
- The politician's evident backpedaling on key issues raised doubts about their leadership.
Related Words
- clarifying
- reconsidering
- disowning
- reversing
3.2. Backing down from a previously supported position
Abandoning or weakening a previously expressed position, opinion, or decision, particularly when facing disagreement, criticism, or public pressure.
Synonyms
- backing down
- backing off
- backtracking
- about-face
- U-turn
- flip-flop
- changing direction
Antonyms
- standing firm
- maintaining one's position
- reaffirming
Examples
- The CEO's constant backpedaling eroded trust among investors and stakeholders.
- The politician's evident backpedaling on key issues raised doubts about their leadership.
Related Words
- conceding
- yielding
- giving ground
- changing one's mind
- retreating
3.3. Withdrawing from a commitment or agreement
Abandoning a previous promise, agreement, or commitment instead of following through with what was originally agreed.
Synonyms
- backing out
- reneging
- withdrawing
- forswearing
- foreswearing
- begging off
- crying off
Antonyms
- fulfilling
- honoring
- keeping
- satisfying
Examples
- In negotiations, blatant backpedaling often undermines the credibility of parties involved.
Related Words
- copping out
- wimping out
- cancellation
- withdrawal
- abandonment
NOUN
4. The act of withdrawing from a previously supported position
The act of distancing oneself from a previously supported idea, action, or behavior; a reversal of an earlier position or decision.
4.1. Reversal of a previously stated position
A change in attitude, opinion, or public position in which someone retreats from an idea or claim they previously supported.
Synonyms
- backtracking
- about-face
- U-turn
- flip-flop
- reversal
- turnabout
- turnaround
Antonyms
- reaffirmation
- confirmation
- agreement
- approval
Examples
- The CEO's constant backpedaling eroded trust among investors and stakeholders.
- Instead of admitting fault, he resorted to backpedaling and blame-shifting tactics.
Related Words
- change of mind
- second thoughts
- change in direction
- contradiction
- withdrawal
4.2. Withdrawal or retraction of a claim
The act of taking back, disowning, or formally withdrawing a previously expressed statement, assertion, or position.
Synonyms
- retraction
- recantation
- disavowal
- repudiation
- renunciation
- withdrawal
- abjuration
Antonyms
- confirmation
- corroboration
- validation
- reaffirmation
Examples
- Backpedaling only worsened the situation as the truth became more apparent.
Related Words
- denial
- disclaimer
- recall
- revocation
- nullification