backward

The word “backward” has 2 syllables: back-ward.

It's pronounced as /ˈbæk.wərd/.

What is synonym and antonym for backward?

In the thesaurus, “backward” has 19 synonyms and 14 antonyms.

Here are synonyms and antonyms for backward along with examples of usage in sentences.

Synonyms for backward

noun
1. The state behind or past.
adjective
1. (of motion) In the direction towards the back.
2. (of motion) In the direction reverse of normal.
3. Reluctant or unable to advance.
4. Of a culture: undeveloped or unsophisticated.
5. Outdated.
6. On that part of the field behind the batsman's popping crease.
7. Further behind the batsman's popping crease than something else.
8. Unwilling; averse; reluctant.
9. Slow to apprehend; having difficulties in learning.
10. Late or behindhand.
11. Already past or gone; bygone.
adverb
1. (of motion) In the direction towards the back; backwards.
2. Toward, or in, past time or events; ago.
3. By way of reflection; reflexively.
4. From a better to a worse state, as from honor to shame, from religion to sin.

His reluctance to embrace change held him backward in his career advancement.
The child struggled with tying shoelaces, a skill that seemed backward for his age.
The region's education system faced criticism for its backward approach to modern teaching methods.
Despite initial setbacks, the company made backward strides towards innovation and growth.
The political leader's outdated policies seemed backward compared to contemporary global standards.

On this page you'll find 33 synonyms, antonyms, or another words to backward, such as: ahead, along, around, back, bashful, clockwise, convivial.

Make sure to choose synonyms and antonyms that are appropriate for the context of the sentence.