When it comes to the English language, even small differences in word endings can cause confusion. One common question that often arises is whether to use “backward” or “backwards.” While both words seem similar, their usage can depend on the context, regional preferences, or specific grammar rules. In this article, we’ll explore whether you should use “backward or backwards,” and provide clear guidelines to help you choose the right word every time.
Why is There Confusion?
The confusion between “backward” and “backwards” stems from several factors. Both words convey a similar idea of moving or directed toward the back, leading many to think they are interchangeable. Additionally, regional preferences add to the mix—American English often uses “backward,” while British English favors “backwards” as an adverb. This difference, combined with inconsistent usage in various texts and the historical evolution of English, makes it challenging to determine the correct form in different contexts. Understanding these nuances helps clarify when to use each term appropriately.
⚡ Quick Summary
“Backward” and “backwards” are often used interchangeably, but there are differences in their usage. “Backward” is commonly preferred in American English and can function as both an adjective and an adverb. On the other hand, “backwards” is more frequently used in British English as an adverb. Both words originate from Old English and share similar meanings, but their usage varies based on regional preferences and context. Understanding these nuances helps ensure your writing is precise and appropriate for your audience.
What Does the Word “Backward” Mean?
The word “backward” is primarily used as an adjective and can describe something that is oriented or directed toward the back. For example, you might say, “He took a backward step,” meaning that he moved in the direction opposite to where he was facing. In American English, “backward” is commonly used both as an adjective and as an adverb, though its use as an adverb is less frequent. As an adjective, it often denotes a position or orientation, while as an adverb, it generally implies movement in a reverse direction.
What Does the Word “Backwards” Mean?
“Backwards” is predominantly used as an adverb and describes the action of moving or directing oneself in a reverse direction. For instance, “She walked backwards” means she walked in the direction opposite to where she was facing. In British English, “backwards” is used more frequently as an adverb, and it sometimes appears in contexts where American English would use “backward.” The term emphasizes the manner of movement or orientation, focusing on the direction rather than describing a position.
“Backward” vs “Backwards”: The Differences
While “backward” and “backwards” are closely related, they have distinct usages that can affect how you choose between them:
-
Part of Speech:
- “Backward”: This word can function as both an adjective and an adverb. As an adjective, it describes something oriented toward the back, such as in “a backward glance.” As an adverb, it’s used less commonly but still valid, as in “He looked backward.”
- “Backwards”: This word is primarily used as an adverb. It describes the manner of movement or direction, as in “She walked backwards.” It is not typically used as an adjective.
-
Regional Preferences:
- American English: In American English, “backward” is often preferred as both an adjective and an adverb. For example, you might say, “The car moved backward.”
- British English: In British English, “backwards” is more commonly used as an adverb. So, you might hear “The car moved backwards.”
-
Usage Context:
- “Backward”: Often used in contexts where describing a position or direction is necessary. For instance, “He took a backward step” describes a step taken in the direction opposite to the current one.
- “Backwards”: Typically used when emphasizing the manner or direction of movement. For example, “He jumped backwards” highlights the direction in which he jumped.
British English Words Ending in ‘s’ vs American English
| Word | British English | American English |
|---|---|---|
| Forward/Forwards | Forwards | Forward |
| Toward/Towards | Towards | Toward |
| Upward/Upwards | Upwards | Upward |
| Downward/Downwards | Downwards | Downward |
| Inward/Inwards | Inwards | Inward |
| Outward/Outwards | Outwards | Outward |
| Afterward/Afterwards | Afterwards | Afterward |
Which One Should You Use: “Backward” or “Backwards”?
Choosing between “backward” and “backwards” depends largely on the context and the form of English you are using.
-
For American English: It’s generally more common to use “backward” both as an adjective and as an adverb. For example, you would say, “He took a backward step” (adjective) or “The car moved backward” (adverb).
-
For British English: “Backwards” is preferred when used as an adverb. You might say, “She walked backwards.” However, when using it as an adjective, “backward” remains the correct choice, such as in “a backward glance.”
If you’re writing for an international audience and want to avoid confusion, it’s usually safe to stick with “backward” for American English and “backwards” for British English when used as an adverb. Consistency is key, so whichever form you choose, make sure to use it consistently throughout your writing.
You will like: Cacoon or Cocoon: Which Spelling is Correct?
Examples in Context
Here are some examples to illustrate the correct usage of “backward” and “backwards” in different contexts.
Examples with “Backward”
- He took a backward step to avoid the puddle.
- The technology in that area is surprisingly backward.
- The car slowly rolled backward down the hill.
- The gymnast executed a perfect backward flip.
- The company needs to update its backward policies.
- The chair tilted backward dangerously.
- The backward design of the machine caused many issues.
- She hesitated, then took a backward step.
Examples with “Backwards”
- She walked backwards to avoid the muddy path.
- The child stumbled backwards and almost fell.
- He glanced backwards to check if anyone was following him.
- The car started rolling backwards down the slope.
- The video was played backwards as part of the special effect.
- They slowly moved backwards from the danger zone.
- The instructions seemed to be written backwards.
- The horse suddenly reared and moved backwards.
Synonyms and Similar Terms to “Backward” and “Backwards”
When choosing between “backward” and “backwards,” you might also consider using some of the following synonyms and similar terms. These alternatives can be used in different contexts, whether you’re describing movement, direction, or a figurative concept.
Synonyms for Both “Backward” and “Backwards”
-
Rearward:
- This term can replace both “backward” and “backwards” in many contexts. It describes something positioned or moving toward the back.
- Example: “She took a rearward step” or “The car rolled rearward.”
-
Reverse:
- “Reverse” can also substitute for either word when describing movement in the opposite direction.
- Example: “The machine operated in reverse” or “He walked in reverse.”
-
Reversed:
- Often used to describe something that has been turned or flipped backward, “reversed” can fit into contexts where either “backward” or “backwards” might be used.
- Example: “The film was shown in reversed order.”
-
In Reverse:
- Similar to “reverse,” this phrase can be used to indicate movement or action in the opposite direction.
- Example: “The process was done in reverse.”
More Specific Alternatives
-
Retrograde:
- This word is more formal and often used in a figurative sense to describe something moving backward in progress or thinking. It’s more aligned with “backward.”
- Example: “The decision was a retrograde step.”
-
Retreating:
- “Retreating” is typically used to describe withdrawing or moving back, often in a strategic context. It can be a substitute for “backward” or “backwards” when describing movement away from something.
- Example: “The army was retreating under pressure.”
-
Aback:
- “Aback” is less common but can be used to describe a sudden move backward, often in a figurative sense. It’s more closely related to “backwards.”
- Example: “He was taken aback by the surprise.”
-
In Retreat:
- Similar to “retreating,” “in retreat” describes a backward movement, often used in a strategic or cautious context. It’s an alternative to “backwards.”
- Example: “The forces moved in retreat.”
These synonyms and similar terms provide flexible options for expressing the concept of moving or orienting backward, whether you’re writing in a literal or figurative context.\
You will like: Ill vs Sick: What’s the Difference and When to Use Each?
Origins of “Backward” and “Backward”
Origins of “Backward”
The adverb “backward” has been part of the English language since around 1300, originating from the Old English term “abakward,” which combines “on bæc” (meaning “back”) with the suffix “-weard,” used to indicate direction. This formation created a word that literally means “toward the back” or “in the direction behind.” Originally used as an adverb, Old English also had a similar form, “bæcling,” to convey this idea. By the 1550s, “backward” began to be used as an adjective, signifying something directed toward the rear. The figurative sense of being “behindhand with regard to progress” emerged later, in the 1690s. Additionally, the phrase “to ring bells backward” (starting from the lowest to the highest note) was historically used around 1500 as an alarm signal for fires, invasions, or to express dismay.
Origins of “Backwards”
The word “backwards” has its roots in the early 1500s, with the earliest recorded use found in a 1513 translation by Gavin Douglas, a Scottish poet and bishop of Dunkeld. The word “backwards” followed a similar developmental path as “backward,” but the “s” at the end aligns it more closely with other Middle English adverbs. The addition of “s” is a characteristic feature of many adverbs in English, contributing to the formation of “backwards” as we know it today. This variant became particularly popular in British English, distinguishing itself from “backward” primarily by its usage as an adverb.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between “backward” and “backwards” is key to using these words correctly in your writing. While both words share similar origins and meanings, their usage can vary depending on regional preferences and context. “Backward” is more commonly used in American English, often serving as both an adjective and adverb, while “backwards” is favored in British English as an adverb. By keeping these distinctions in mind, you can ensure your writing is clear, accurate, and tailored to your audience, whether you choose “backward” or “backwards.”
Sources
Merriam-Webster (Backward Definition & Meaning), Cambridge Dictionary (BACKWARDS | English meaning – Cambridge Dictionary), Oxford English Dictionary (backwards, adv. & adj. meanings, etymology and more) and Etymonline (Etymology of backward by etymonline).
