the backward escape of gases and unburned gunpowder after a gun is fired
Used in a Sentence
backfire
How to use backfire in a sentence. Example sentences and definitions for backfire.
Editorial note
But in the long run, it might backfire; I honestly don't know.
Examples8
Definitions7
Parts of speech2
Quick take
the backward escape of gases and unburned gunpowder after a gun is fired
Meaning at a glance
The clearest senses and uses of backfire gathered in one view.
a loud noise made by the explosion of fuel in the manifold or exhaust of an internal combustion engine
a fire that is set intentionally in order to slow an approaching forest fire or grassfire by clearing a burned area in its path
Definitions
Core meanings and parts of speech for backfire.
noun
the backward escape of gases and unburned gunpowder after a gun is fired
See also: blowback
noun
a loud noise made by the explosion of fuel in the manifold or exhaust of an internal combustion engine
noun
a fire that is set intentionally in order to slow an approaching forest fire or grassfire by clearing a burned area in its path
noun
a miscalculation that recoils on its maker
See also: boomerang
verb
come back to the originator of an action with an undesired effect; "Your comments may backfire and cause you a lot of trouble"
verb
emit a loud noise as a result of undergoing a backfire; "My old car backfires all the time"
verb
set a controlled fire to halt an advancing forest to prairie fire
Example sentences
But in the long run, it might backfire; I honestly don't know.
There's nothing else to backfire as he is already tagged for life.
It will just backfire into internet rage and dossing ala dongle gate.
You should totally do it. This won't backfire or be hypocritical in any way shape or form.
A declared war is one thing but this type of terror weapon is likely to backfire some day, if it hasn't already.
"We're willing to sell out our reputation and credibility, as long as it doesn't backfire.> "Why did it happen?
"Cubicle-ee: "That's a little sleezy and sounds like it may backfire.."Suit: "Nonsense, nobody reads the ToS and everybody is data mining people's personal info these days, they can't get mad at us without getting mad at everyone else too. Look at Google.
Not only are people unwilling to compromise sacred values for moneycontrary to classic economic theorys assumption that financial incentives motivate behaviorbut the inclusion of money in an offer produces a backfire effect such that people become even less likely to give up their sacred values compared to when an offer does not include money.
Frequently asked questions
Short answers drawn from the clearest meanings and examples for this word.
How do you use backfire in a sentence?
But in the long run, it might backfire; I honestly don't know.
What does backfire mean?
the backward escape of gases and unburned gunpowder after a gun is fired
What part of speech is backfire?
backfire is commonly used as noun, verb.