backtracks
/bækˈtræks/
NOUN
1. The act of retracing one's steps
The act of returning along a previously traveled route or going back over an earlier course of action.
1.1. Retracing a route or previous steps
Refers to returning along a path or route that has already been traveled, often to correct a wrong turn or reach an earlier location.
Synonyms
- retracing
- doubling back
- reversing course
- turning back
Antonyms
- advancing
- proceeding
- moving forward
- pressing ahead
Related Words
- return
- retreat
- previous route
- wrong turn
VERB
2. Repeating or reviewing work already done
To return to an earlier stage of a task or process in order to repeat, review, or reconsider work that has already been completed.
2.1. Revisiting previous work or steps
Describes going back over completed work or earlier stages of a process to review details, identify mistakes, reinforce skills, or reconsider previous actions.
Synonyms
- reviewing
- revisiting
- reexamining
- repeating
- retracing
Antonyms
- advancing
- proceeding
- progressing
- continuing
Examples
- The athlete sometimes backtracks during training to reinforce fundamental skills.
- The author occasionally backtracks in the narrative to provide context for the story's events.
Related Words
- rechecking
- reassessing
- reinforcing
- correcting
- previous steps
VERB
3. Reversing a decision or withdrawing a previous position
To change one's position, withdraw a previous statement, or reverse a decision or commitment, especially after criticism or opposition.
3.1. Retracting statements or claims
Refers to taking back or withdrawing something previously said, such as a statement, opinion, claim, or public position.
Synonyms
- abjures
- disavows
- foreswears
- forswears
- recants
- repudiates
- retracts
- takes back
- unsays
- withdraws
Antonyms
- maintains
- supports
- upholds
- honors
- fulfills
Examples
- A responsible leader rarely backtracks on their commitments once they've been made.
- It's frustrating when someone backtracks on their promises, causing uncertainty and distrust in relationships.
Related Words
- renounces
- disclaims
- disowns
- rejects
- refutes
- abandons
3.2. Backing down from a decision or commitment
Describes reversing a previously announced decision, abandoning a commitment, or retreating from an intended course of action.
Synonyms
- about-faces
- backpedals
- backs down
- backs off
- backs out
- begs off
- cops out
- cries off
- reneges
- reverses
- switches
- wimps out
Antonyms
Examples
- A responsible leader rarely backtracks on their commitments once they've been made.
- It's frustrating when someone backtracks on their promises, causing uncertainty and distrust in relationships.
Related Words
VERB
4. Taxiing an aircraft along a runway in the opposite direction
To taxi an aircraft down an active runway in the direction opposite to that being used for takeoff.
4.1. Moving an aircraft in the reverse runway direction
Refers to taxiing an aircraft along an active runway in the direction opposite to the normal takeoff direction.
Synonyms
- taxiing in the opposite direction
Related Words
- runway
- taxiway
- takeoff
- aircraft ground movement
VERB
5. Exercising a racehorse in the opposite direction
To exercise a racehorse around a racetrack in the direction opposite to that in which races are run.
5.1. Training a racehorse in reverse track direction
Describes exercising a racehorse around a racetrack in the direction opposite to the normal racing direction.
Synonyms
- exercising in the opposite direction
Related Words
- racehorse
- racetrack
- horse training
- exercise