backslide
/bækslaɪd/
NOUN
1. A backward regression or return to a worse state
A decline or reversal in progress, improvement, or development, resulting in a return to a previous and less desirable condition.
1.1. Regression after improvement
A return to an earlier, less advanced, or less desirable condition after a period of progress or improvement.
Synonyms
- decline
- regression
- relapse
- retrogression
- reversion
- setback
- reversal
Antonyms
- advancement
- development
- evolution
- progress
- progression
- growth
Examples
- After months of progress, Sarah felt disappointed to notice a backslide in her fitness level.
- The organization implemented measures to prevent members from experiencing a backslide into negative behavior patterns.
Related Words
- deterioration
- degeneration
- worsening
- reversion
NOUN
2. A dance movement resembling walking backward
A dance move in which the feet are alternately slid backward while the heels are lifted, creating the illusion of walking forward while actually moving backward.
2.1. Moonwalk dance movement
A sliding dance technique in which a dancer appears to walk forward while moving backward, commonly known as the moonwalk.
Synonyms
- moonwalk
Related Words
- glide
- sliding
- dance step
VERB
3. To regress or return to a worse state
To slip backward in progress, improvement, or development, or to return to a previous and less desirable condition.
3.1. Returning to old habits or behavior
To return to undesirable habits, behaviors, or patterns after having made progress in overcoming them.
Synonyms
- relapse
- regress
- lapse
- revert
- retrogress
- slip
Antonyms
Examples
- Backslide into old habits is a common challenge when trying to maintain a new lifestyle.
- Despite his efforts to improve, John seemed to backslide into procrastination once again.
- It's crucial to recognize warning signs before a patient starts to backslide in their recovery journey.
Related Words
- backsliding
- fall from grace
- apostatize
- sin
3.2. Deteriorating in quality or condition
To become worse in quality, condition, effectiveness, or performance after previously showing improvement.
Synonyms
- decline
- degenerate
- drop
- ebb
- fall
- retrograde
- worsen
Antonyms
Examples
- Despite his efforts to improve, John seemed to backslide into procrastination once again.
- It's crucial to recognize warning signs before a patient starts to backslide in their recovery journey.
Related Words
3.3. Returning to religious disobedience or abandoning faith
To abandon religious beliefs or practices, or to return to sinful or spiritually undesirable behavior after a period of religious commitment.
Synonyms
- apostatize
- fall from grace
- lapse
- sin
- deviate
Antonyms
Related Words
- faithless
- irreligious
- unfaithful
- ungodly
- unholy
- unrighteous