backsliding
/bækˈslaɪdɪŋ/
VERB
1. Regressing or returning to a previous, worse state
The act of slipping backward in progress, improvement, or development, or returning to an earlier and less desirable condition.
1.1. Regressing or deteriorating
Returning to a previous, less favorable condition after a period of progress or improvement, including a decline in quality, performance, or circumstances.
Synonyms
- declining
- degenerating
- dropping
- ebbing
- falling
- regressing
- relapsing
- retrograding
- retrogressing
- reverting
- worsening
Antonyms
Examples
- Backsliding into old habits is a common challenge during the early stages of recovery.
- The company's recent financial reports suggest a concerning trend of backsliding.
- The government's efforts to prevent environmental backsliding have been met with mixed reactions from the public.
- Despite her initial progress, she noticed signs of backsliding in her commitment to self-care.
- The coach implemented strict measures to prevent any backsliding in the team's performance.
Related Words
1.2. Returning to religious disobedience or abandoning faith
Turning away from religious beliefs or practices, abandoning spiritual commitments, or returning to sinful and morally undesirable behavior.
Synonyms
- antireligious
- blasphemous
- desecrating
- faithless
- godless
- immoral
- impious
- iniquitous
- irreligious
- irreverent
- profane
- sacrilegious
- sinful
- unfaithful
- ungodly
- unholy
- unrighteous
- unspiritual
- wicked
Antonyms
Related Words
- apostasy
- fall from grace
- sinning
- transgression
- worldliness
NOUN
2. An occasion of regression or moral relapse
An instance of returning to a previous and less desirable state, particularly a lapse in moral conduct, religious commitment, or personal improvement.
2.1. Setback or relapse after progress
An occurrence in which someone or something regresses, declines, or returns to an undesirable condition after previously making progress.
Synonyms
- lapse
- regression
- relapse
- reversion
- retrogression
- setback
- reversal
Antonyms
- advancement
- development
- evolution
- growth
- progression
Examples
- Backsliding into old habits is a common challenge during the early stages of recovery.
- The company's recent financial reports suggest a concerning trend of backsliding.
Related Words
- deterioration
- decline
- degeneration
- downturn
- worsening
ADJECTIVE
3. Sliding backward
Moving or sliding backward rather than forward.
3.1. Moving in a backward direction
Describing something that slides or moves backward instead of advancing forward.
Synonyms
- sliding back
- receding
- retreating
Antonyms
- advancing
- moving forward
- progressing